Editorial / Virtual navigation and old rigs: 2 complementary ways to enjoy yachting?

Boating sometimes seems inaccessible to the general public. From maritime gatherings to virtual boat races, there are many ways to appeal to the neophyte. Should you really choose?

The success of virtual sailing

For old-fashioned sailors, the success of virtual sailing and Virtual Regatta is a little disconcerting. But the success story of this online navigation game by its founder Philippe Guigné shows just how indispensable it has become. We may be a long way from the sea spray and the sound of the waves, but some young sailors claim to have learned to navigate via video games, even to the point of taking a very real helm today. From the screen to the helm, the bridge seems to work.

Popular gatherings

The crowds strolling past the old sailing ships also bear witness to the fascination of the sea for the general public. The success of the last Semaine du Golfe in Morbihan, the many visitors expected in Rouen for the Armada are just some examples. It's also a great opportunity to learn more about the maritime world through on-shore activities, and sometimes even some spectacular sailing. While the huge size of the event can be irritating for yachtsmen who prefer more intimate sailing, young sailors are born each year.

At a time when the classic family tradition of passing on the passion for sailing is on the wane, and sailing schools are struggling to fill their courses, virtual sailing and large gatherings certainly have their faults, but they undoubtedly offer a modern gateway to yachting.

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