The Etel has a reputation for fast flowing currents and sandbars, however it was less heart stopping than Guidel on the River laita

For a guide to the River Etel's entrance we contacted the only female pilot in France. The Etel pilot role has stayed in the family for many years, Madame Pene took over from her husband 30 years ago and today we heard her daughter directing boats over the VHF.

An hour before High Water we presented ourselves to seaward of the bar behind a French flagged boat that was entering. On VHF Chanel 13 we identified ourselves. So far so good we thought following behind.

Shortly after the French boat stopped to drop their sails, making us the leading boat. Fortunately we could understand Madame and she could understand us. The river was flowing fast but the channel was straight and it was not difficult to follow Madam's instructions, which were mostly "toujours tout droit, comme ca".

When we arrived off the marina a rib came out and directed us to a berth on the long visitor's pontoon outside the marina. Our two night stay was very enjoyable, the town was small with several cafes, restaurants and a small Carrefour. We didn't get to visit the museum that celebrates the tuna fishing heritage of Etel. Another time perhaps.