Equatorial crossing and Cape Horn drama: stories from the Vendée Globe fleet

Fast miles for the leaders

Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) has maintained his commanding lead over Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA) as both benefit from stable SE trade winds. After battling light and unpredictable breezes off Brazil, the skippers now enjoy fast, steady progress northward.

Photo sent from the boat PAPREC ARKÉA during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 02, 2025. Photo credit: skipper Yoann Richomme

“Their wind angle is opening up as they go,” explains Fabien Delahaye, assistant race director. “Trade wind conditions are stable, with around 15 knots of wind and light seas—ideal for making miles. Charlie should reach the equator by mid-afternoon on Sunday.”

With the equatorial crossing in sight, Dalin consolidates his position as the fleet’s leader, extending his push toward the finish line.

Rounding Cape Horn

At the opposite end of the fleet, Cape Horn stands as a monumental milestone. Swiss skipper Alan Roura (Hublot) is the latest to brave its challenging conditions, with 30-35 knots of wind and 4-5 metre seas. “I’m taking it slow to protect my boat,” says Roura, who is on his third Vendée Globe campaign.

Photo sent from the boat Hublot during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 02, 2025. Photo credit: skipper Alan Roura

Other skippers, including Isabelle Joschke (MACSF) and Giancarlo Pedote (Prysmian), have opted to delay their approach, awaiting calmer weather before rounding the infamous cape. For these sailors, the Horn marks the end of the relentless Southern Ocean and the promise of more forgiving seas ahead.

Life in the band of Banditos

Mid-fleet, a group of nine skippers has formed what Arnaud Boissières (La Mie Câline) affectionately calls the “banditos.” From Tanguy Le Turquais (Lazare) to the ever-competitive Boissières himself, these skippers share not just geographical proximity but a spirit of camaraderie and healthy rivalry.

Photo sent from the boat La Mie Caline during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 04, 2025. Photo credit: skipper Arnaud Boissières

“This group is full of diverse profiles,” Boissières explains. “We’ve got everyone from first-timers to seasoned veterans, including Violette Dorange, the youngest skipper, and ‘crazy Kiwi’ Conrad Colman. It’s fun to compete and sail alongside such varied talent.”

Photo sent from the boat DeVenir during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 03, 2025. Photo credit: skipper Violette Dorange

While competition remains fierce, the skippers also cherish the moments of connection, whether through VHF calls or shared challenges. Sébastien Marsset (FOUSSIER) notes, “It’s stimulating to imagine everyone experiencing the same ups and downs. We gauge each other, learn, and push ourselves harder.”

Nature’s rewards

Despite the race’s gruelling demands, the banditos find solace and inspiration in the beauty of their surroundings. Louis Duc (Fives Group – Lantana Environnement) remarks, “I spend a lot of time outside, enjoying magnificent colours and spectacular surfs. It’s moments like these that make it all worthwhile.”

For these skippers, the journey is as much about personal discovery as it is about racing. As they approach Cape Horn, the group reflects on the transition ahead. “We’ve been waiting for this moment,” says Duc. “The end of the Southern Ocean is near, and it’s time for a new chapter in the race.”

The adventure continues

As the Vendée Globe progresses, each skipper carves out a unique story of determination and resilience. Whether at the front of the fleet or in the heart of the Pacific, these sailors embody the spirit of adventure that makes this race a true test of human endurance.

With Cape Horn behind them and the equator ahead, the skippers continue to inspire with their relentless drive and shared camaraderie—hallmarks of this extraordinary race.