We're berthed in the Port de Minimes and have decided to winter the boat there. I'm cheating being on this board, because we bought a small house here in France where we intend to spend the winter months, then sail for 6 months each summer.

La Rochelle is fine, the marina is massive, but well sheltered. Sailing grounds are OK, although some of the island marinas have limited tidal access, it gives time to explore ashore. Little to the south, until we complete the Biscay crossing next April. The islands to the north: Yeu, Belle Isle etc are very pleasant. We haven't had any problems getting berths, and some of the anchorages are good.

Currently using aol because we have it at the house. Access to the net is good at La Rochelle, free in the Capitainerie. Can't currently connect the mobile phone to the laptop as Nokia haven't yet cracked the XP link. A bit frustrating really, but we should have been a bit more selective when we bought a new mobile.

Happy to answer any more questions.