Solidarity trip from Grandcamp-Maisy to Madagascar: a project combining sea and sharing

Mis à jour le 22 May 2026

As the world races ahead and the pace quickens, certain initiatives remind us of the power of human connection and the irresistible allure of adventure. This is precisely the spirit that drives the audacious project of Olivier Guillon, a native of Grandcamp-Maisy and former fisherman, who, in September 2025, is preparing to set sail for a distant and promising destination: Madagascar. Far from tourist clichés, his expedition, named Mihomehy – “laughing” in Malagasy – is not just a sea voyage; it is a true ode to sharing and discovery, a solidarity journey designed to touch hearts and leave a lasting impression, both on the participants and on the people they encounter. Accompanied by his wife Nora and four friends, Olivier offers an extraordinary experience where sailing meets the screening of silent films, creating unexpected cultural bridges on the remote shores of Madagascar. This journey is a harmonious fusion of a passion for the sea and a deep desire to bring joy and culture to remote villages, often overlooked by traditional tourist routes. Imagine a dhow sailing from cove to cove, carrying not only adventurers but also a solar projector ready to illuminate the faces of children and adults with the universal humor of silent cinema. This is more than just an excursion; it’s an act of generosity, a genuine exchange that promises to leave a lasting impression. The Grandcamp-Maisy team, drawing on their maritime experience and love for Madagascar, is preparing for a total immersion, living off the day’s catch and the bounty of the lush landscape, sharing the daily life of the Malagasy people in a chosen simplicity and an invaluable human experience. This project demonstrates that it’s possible to travel differently, leaving your mark without leaving a trace.

…and by transforming each stopover into a memorable encounter, thus forging indelible bonds between two worlds. In short: The Grandcamp-Maisy solidarity adventure in Madagascar

🗓️

• Next departure: September 3, 2025, for a 12-day immersion. 🗺️
• Destination: The heart of eastern Madagascar, far from the beaten track. 🤝
• Authentic encounters: Special exchanges with villagers. 🌳
• Exceptional biodiversity: Lemur and endemic wildlife watching. 💚
• Solidarity actions: Concrete participation in sustainable development projects. ♻️
• Environmental commitment: Support for the preservation of the Vohibola forest and eco-responsible initiatives. 🏖️
• Well-deserved relaxation: Moments of rest on the idyllic beaches of Sainte-Marie. 🎬
• Cultural sharing: Screenings of silent films in the villages by the Grandcamp-Maisy team. ⏱️
• Registration deadline: June 30, 2025. 💼 Impact: 10% of the trip price is donated directly to local projects.
• Taking Flight to Adventure: Grandcamp-Maisy, Starting Point of an Unforgettable Solidarity Trip to Madagascar The idea of ​​embarking on such an adventure, a solidarity trip that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, was born from an unwavering passion for the sea and for a distant island: Madagascar. Olivier Guillon, a man whose roots are deeply embedded in Grandcamp-Maisy, where the murmur of the waves lulled him to sleep as a fisherman during his childhood, is the driving force behind this unique expedition. It’s no secret that the Atlantic Ocean, which he has sailed for years, has always been his domain. But seventeen years ago, another ocean captivated him: the Indian Ocean, and with it, another vibrant and alluring land: Madagascar. Since that first encounter, this island has become a true magnet, calling him back again and again. One can imagine the excitement and meticulousness with which Olivier, an experienced sailor and active member of the Grandcomaiserais Boaters’ Club (CPG), began to outline this extraordinary project. It wasn’t simply about returning to a place he loves, but about sharing this passion, this discovery, this generosity. The project, named Mihomehy, which means “laughing” in Malagasy, perfectly expresses his intention: to bring joy. For this eighth visit to the Red Island, Olivier isn’t going alone. He’s bringing along Nora Rerbal, his wife, who also fell under Madagascar’s spell during a previous memorable eleven-day pirogue trip, exploring tiny islands and authentic fishing villages. Their stories from that time, filled with warm encounters and breathtaking landscapes, are surely a constant source of inspiration.

The team has grown with the addition of four close friends: Sylvain Lebel, Alexandre Lévy, Catherine Mausset, and Bertrand Lemoigne—partners who share the same spirit of adventure and desire to make a difference. Most are also seasoned sailors and members of the CPG (Centre de Philanthropy de Géant), ensuring strong cohesion and the ability to cope with the unexpected challenges of such a voyage. Alexandre’s absence from the first group photos does not diminish his commitment; his talent as a composer and sound artist, working with the wind, promises unique artistic moments during stopovers. The departure is scheduled for September 3, 2025, with a registration deadline of June 30, 2025. These dates are not merely administrative markers; they symbolize the urgency and the opportunity to commit to a noble cause and to live an experience that goes far beyond a traditional vacation. This humanitarian project This is an invitation to break free from routine, reconnect with what truly matters, and discover another facet of the world, one where authenticity and sharing reign supreme. It’s the very essence of adventure, the drive to leave our comfort zone and embrace the unknown with an open heart and a curious mind. The journey from Grandcamp-Maisy to Madagascar isn’t measured solely in sea kilometers; it’s measured in dreams, hopes, and the promise of profound personal transformation. We prepare for takeoff into the extraordinary, where every stop will be a discovery and every encounter an enrichment.

Beyond Horizons: An Authentic Dive into the Malagasy Soul and Human Connection Once the moorings are cast off, Olivier Guillon’s team embarks on a deep immersion in the heart of Madagascar, far from the beaten tourist track. The idea is simple yet powerful: to use a 14-meter fishing boat, rented from their Malagasy friend Sanson, to island-hop. This vessel becomes a true vehicle for human connection, sailing the waters of the Indian Ocean with two Malagasy sailors as guides and interpreters. Imagine these stops in fishing villages that have managed to preserve their authenticity, places where time seems to have stood still, where life flows to the rhythm of the tides and the seasons. We’re talking about places where electricity is an unknown luxury, where the inhabitants live primarily from fishing, the abundant fruits, and the nourishing plants provided by a lush natural environment. It is within this context that the Mihomehy project takes on its full meaning. One of the most touching aspects of this expedition is the screening of silent films. It’s a truly brilliant idea! Armed with a video projector and solar panels, the team projects thirty-minute comedy sequences onto the dhow’s sail, transforming each village into an open-air cinema. The language barrier disappears in the face of universal humor, and we witness scenes of collective laughter and pure joy. These lighthearted moments are unforgettable for everyone, a true immersion in happiness and a complete disconnection from the modern world. Nora, Olivier’s wife, expresses it so well when she speaks of the beauty of these people who, despite their material poverty, do not experience the social misery sometimes encountered elsewhere. They are smiling, incredibly hospitable, and demonstrate exemplary solidarity. It’s a life lesson offered to those who accept to live this adventure.

The group from Grandcamp-Maisy understands the opportunity to forge deep connections. They live day to day, sleeping on the boat or right on the beach, and living off their catch and local resources. It’s not a comfortable journey, and that’s precisely what makes it so enriching. The participants, experienced travelers and undaunted by challenging conditions, are ready to adapt and marvel at every moment. The idea is to offer more than just entertainment; it’s a way to build relationships, create unforgettable encounters, and leave a positive impact, without ever harming the environment or local customs. You can feel that each member of the team has something to contribute: Olivier with his organizational skills and knowledge of the country, Nora with her love for local cuisine, and Alexandre, the composer, ready to draw inspiration from the wind to create ephemeral music to accompany the silent films. It’s an organized challenge without rigid constraints, because in Madagascar, the unexpected is the norm, and that’s what makes each day so unique and exciting. This flexibility allows you to fully embrace the spirit of the island and respond to the needs of the communities with an authenticity and spontaneity rarely found elsewhere. We’re telling you, it’s a life-changing experience, truly!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCkZzruJ5Hs Here are some highlights experienced by the participants and the locals:

🛶

Discovery by dugout canoe: Exploring small islands and hidden coves, guided by local fishermen. 🍲

Shared meals: Preparing and enjoying traditional dishes made with freshly caught fish and local produce. 🎶

Evenings of storytelling and music: Improvised moments where Malagasy stories and songs blend with the group’s musical creations. 🌟 Magical projections

• Language Exchange : Joyful attempts at communication, breaking down barriers through laughter and kindness.
• Introduction to Local Fishing : Learning traditional fishing techniques from the local people. Building the Future: Ecological Innovations and Sustainable Development at the Heart of Projects in Madagascar
• The Grandcamp-Maisy humanitarian project is part of a broader vision of sustainable development and solidarity, particularly through partnerships with organizations like the Erika Fillandy Network. This collaboration is not accidental; it is based on a shared philosophy: travel as a catalyst for transformation. We firmly believe that travel is not just about visiting places, but about broadening one’s horizons, opening one’s heart, and giving profound meaning to every step. A true journey is an experience that leaves no one unchanged. It transforms perspectives, changes habits, and sometimes even redirects life paths, both for the traveler and for the people encountered along the way. The commitment of Erika Fillandy Network, and by extension the Grandcamp-Maisy project, is manifested through several essential pillars that guarantee a positive and lasting impact. First, the principle of a 100% local circuit
• is fundamental. This means that all collaborations are exclusively with Malagasy partners. Why? To maximize the direct economic benefits for the communities visited. Every expense, from renting Sanson’s boat to buying supplies at local markets, contributes directly to Madagascar’s economy. It’s an ethical and responsible approach that ensures travelers’ money truly benefits those who need it most. Clearly, this is much more than just an organized trip; it’s an investment in the future of local populations, a concrete way to support their autonomy and resilience. Furthermore, the eco-responsible aspect is at the heart of the initiative. In a world where environmental preservation has become an urgent matter, this project implements concrete actions to reduce its carbon footprint. This includes transportation choices, rigorous waste management, notably the elimination of single-use plastics, and CO2 offsetting. For example, reforestation initiatives are directly aligned with the mission. This proactive approach demonstrates that it’s possible to travel in harmony with nature, protecting the fragile ecosystems that make Madagascar so rich. Furthermore, the trip’s socially responsible nature is quantifiable and transparent: 10% of the price is directly donated to solidarity projects supported on the island. This direct financial contribution is tangible proof of solidarity and allows for the funding of concrete actions on the ground, such as support for the Razan’ny Vohibola Association.
• This local association embodies a rare hope for the preservation of the Vohibola forest, one of the last natural jewels on Madagascar’s east coast. These forests are known to face numerous threats, but the members of Razan’ny Vohibola, despite their precarious daily lives, are fighting to safeguard them. The humanitarian project by Grandcamp-Maisy and the Erika Fillandy Network highlights these true environmental heroes and provides them with crucial support. This commitment not only protects the forest’s exceptional biodiversity but also raises awareness among local communities about the importance of their natural heritage. It’s an approach where every traveler becomes an agent of change, contributing to both the well-being of the people and the protection of the planet. We are truly proud to be able to support such initiatives, on our scale, and to see the positive impact they generate. This type of trip is a unique opportunity to see concrete help in action and experience the profound joy of making a meaningful contribution, all while immersing yourself in a unique culture and environment. It’s a holistic approach that aims to create a virtuous circle, where tourism becomes a lever for sustainable and respectful development, transforming visitors into ambassadors for a fairer and more balanced world. Your Compass for Responsible and Ethical Travel
• Explore the fundamental differences between authentic solidarity travel and traditional tourism in Madagascar. Make an informed choice that resonates with your values ​​of sharing and respect for the environment!

See the key differences Key Aspect Erika Fillandy Network Solidarity Travel

Traditional Tourist Travel Why choose solidarity travel? Opting for the Erika Fillandy Network Solidarity Travel

means choosing to make a difference. It’s an authentic immersion that nourishes the traveler’s soul while actively contributing to the sustainable development of Malagasy communities. More than just a trip, it’s an exchange, an encounter, and a lasting positive impact. Every step you take in Madagascar with the Erika Fillandy network is a step towards a fairer and more respectful world.

Loading current time in Madagascar… Between Natural Sanctuaries and Coastal Serenity: Exploring Endemic Biodiversity and Relaxation in Madagascar Beyond the purely human and solidarity aspect, a solidarity trip to Madagascar is also an incredible immersion in a biodiversity sanctuary. We’re talking about one of the richest and most unique regions in the world in terms of flora and fauna. The Great Island is home to a multitude of endemic species, meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. The opportunity to observe lemurs, these iconic and often endangered primates, up close in their natural habitat is a rare and privileged experience that leaves a lasting impression. Imagine yourself at sunrise, in the heart of a dense forest, and suddenly, a curious gaze watches you from the canopy. It’s a magical moment, a direct connection with wild and unspoiled nature, a stark reminder of the urgent need for conservation. The trip offers more than just observations; it also provides an opportunity to actively participate in safeguarding these fragile ecosystems. Participating in reforestation and conservation initiatives, particularly by supporting the Razan’ny Vohibola Association and its vital work for the Vohibola Forest, adds a profoundly rewarding dimension to the adventure. You don’t just watch; you take action, contributing to planting the trees of tomorrow, restoring habitats, and ensuring that these natural wonders endure for future generations. It’s a very tangible way to leave your mark—a positive one—on this land. You then understand the complexity of this task, the challenges faced by local communities in the face of deforestation and economic pressures, but also their resilience and determination to protect this invaluable treasure. After the effort and commitment, comes the time for reward and well-deserved relaxation. Madagascar is also famous for its idyllic landscapes, and the beaches of Sainte-Marie are a perfect example. This paradise island, located off the east coast, offers unforgettable moments of rest. Imagine stretches of white sand fringed with coconut palms, a turquoise sea inviting you to swim and contemplate. It’s the ideal place to recharge, clear your mind, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Indian Ocean. You can go snorkeling to discover colorful seabeds, or simply bask in the sun, the sound of the waves your only melody. These moments of tranquility are essential to balance the intensity of community service and exploration. They allow you to process emotions, appreciate the beauty of the world, and prepare for the next stages of the adventure. It is said that the contrast between dedicated work and pure relaxation makes the experience even richer and more memorable. This is a journey that engages all the senses, nourishing the mind, body, and soul, offering a comprehensive perspective on the richness and challenges of Madagascar. You discover that true luxury lies not in ostentatious comfort, but in the authenticity of the experiences and the richness of the moments shared with nature and fellow human beings. It is an invitation to be swept away by the magic of the island, both wild and welcoming, and to return transformed, with a new appreciation for life and its wonders. The Legacy of an Adventure: Sustaining Commitment and Inspiring International Solidarity

The adventure initiated by Olivier Guillon and his team from Grandcamp-Maisy is not intended to be a one-off event. On the contrary, it is conceived as the prelude to a deeper and more lasting commitment, with the hope of ensuring the sustainability of international solidarity and sharing initiatives. The idea of ​​a potential association, which could emerge from the positive feedback and enthusiasm generated by this first solidarity trip, is already taking shape. Olivier, who will remain there for two months, until October 25, 2025, after his friends depart in September and October, will have time to assess the impact of their actions and evaluate the feasibility of such a structure. If the experience confirms the potential to create a lasting bridge between France and Madagascar, we could then witness the birth of an organization dedicated to doing even more for the Malagasy people. It is an exciting prospect, demonstrating that small initiatives can generate significant movements. The Mihomehy project, with its unique blend of sailing, cultural discovery, and practical assistance, serves as an inspiring model for other forms of solidarity. The screening of silent films, for example, perfectly illustrates how simple and creative gestures can break down linguistic and cultural barriers, creating invaluable moments of joy and connection. This approach, which offers laughter and lightheartedness, is as important as material actions, as it nourishes the spirit and strengthens human bonds. It is clear that commitment is not limited to financial resources; it is also, and above all, a matter of time, presence, listening, and exchange. This is what makes this type of travel so enriching: the opportunity to truly connect with people, to learn from their ways of life, their joys and challenges, and to contribute to their well-being in a respectful and meaningful way. Ultimately, this solidarity trip is a call to action for all those seeking to give meaning to their adventures. It’s an invitation to explore the world not as a mere observer, but as an engaged participant. The next departure on September 3, 2025, is a date to remember for those ready to take the plunge. Places are filling up fast, and the opportunity to experience such a profound human and natural immersion, where every gesture counts and every encounter is transformative, is rare. We are reminded that this is not just a trip; it’s an act of heart and conscience, an encounter with oneself, with others, and with a world to protect. It’s a chance to discover Madagascar in a new light, through an adventure that combines the exploration of pristine landscapes with a strong ethical commitment. Olivier Guillon and his team are showing us the way, proving that it’s possible to travel in harmony with one’s values, making a concrete contribution to sustainable development and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the Malagasy people. This project is a breath of fresh air, a shining demonstration that sharing and adventure can be the pillars of a better world, where human connections take precedence over everything else. We hope this initiative will inspire many other travelers to embark on this path, that of fairer, more humane, and more respectful tourism. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaAL8Il-uVU Time flies, and so do opportunities. Ready to give meaning to your next trip? Reserve your spot for the next departure. Registration deadline: June 30, 2025.