Les Chiens Perrins

Les Chiens Perrins is a reef formation northwest of Île d'Yeu made up of jagged rocks that lie just below the water surface. A white beacon tower about 19 meters tall marks the location and warns ships of this hazard.

The reef claimed many ships over the centuries, including the royal vessel David in the 18th century, which resulted in the loss of 107 crew members. A beacon tower was later built to prevent further ships from meeting the same fate.

The name "Chiens Perrins" refers to the dangerous rocks that resemble barking dogs when waves crash against them. Visitors can observe this raw power of the sea from the shore, especially during stormy weather.

The area is best viewed from land, as the reef itself is too dangerous for boats to approach. The best view is from the harbor or cliffs on Île d'Yeu during calm weather, when you can see the rocks beneath the water.

Powerful ocean currents meet north of Basse Flore and create permanent whirlpools spinning around the reef. These swirling waters make the area far more hazardous than the rocks alone could ever be.