Hello !
My name is Arnaud, a French aerospace engineer and lifelong sailing enthusiast, who had the privilege of studying in the US (Go Jackets!) currently living in Paris. My passion for sailing began at the age of six, when my dad first introduced me to the joys of being on the water.
Over the years, I honed my skills in fast-paced inshore student competitions in France. Recently, I ventured into offshore sailing with a transformative trip between Marseille and Corsica, which fueled my eagerness to take on greater challenges in this exhilarating realm.
California holds a special place in my heart, thanks to the families who warmly hosted me in my youth to help me learn English. It's always been a dream to sail the Pacific, and the Pacific Cup feels like the perfect opportunity to bring that dream to life.
I’m reaching out to explore the possibility of joining a crew, whether for the race itself or assisting with the return voyage to the mainland. I bring a mix of skills and experience to the table:
Solid, practical knowledge of sailing with the ability to adapt to any position needed on board.
- A year of service in the French Navy as a firefighter and paramedic, which instilled resilience, adaptability, and familiarity with operating under challenging conditions.
- Strong team dynamics and people skills, enabling me to get along with a variety of personalities.
- A practical, problem-solving mindset and a knack for crafting satisfying meals, even in less-than-ideal conditions at sea.
I’m highly motivated, eager to learn, and committed to contributing positively to any crew. If you have a spot available or know someone who might, I would be truly grateful for the opportunity. Any guidance or advice you can provide would also mean a great deal.
Thank you for considering my request, and I hope to hear from you soon.
Fair winds,
Arnaud Ballande

Phone : +33672219730 (reachable on iMessage, WhatsApp or Signal)