Leaders battle light winds

Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) has reclaimed the lead over Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA), extending a 30-mile margin. The duo is navigating light and unpredictable winds caused by the expanding Saint Helena high-pressure system and Cabo Frio cold front.

Photo sent from the boat MACIF Santé Prévoyance during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 30, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Charlie Dalin

Sebastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) remains steady in third, although slowing as he enters the same light wind zone. Meanwhile, Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE) in fourth reflects on managing solitude and variable weather:

“Last night was complicated, with storms and lightning everywhere. Now, I’m focused on preserving the boat as I progress.”

Photo sent from the boat Groupe Dubreuil during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 31, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Sébastien Simon

Approaching cape horn

The milestone of Cape Horn beckons for skippers Clarisse Crémer (L’Occitane en Provence), Benjamin Dutreux (Guyot Environnement), and Sam Davies (Initiatives Coeur). Crémer, dealing with soaked and malfunctioning computers, has improvised a functional system to continue racing. Dutreux is eager for a memorable rounding:

“Foggy conditions are forecast, but seeing the Horn would be a huge gift!”

Point Nemo and personal victories

Violette Dorange (DEVENIR), the race’s youngest competitor, reached the remote Point Nemo at midnight. Reflecting on her journey, she shared:

“I’m so happy! On January 1, 2024, I dreamed of the Vendée Globe, and here I am, living it.”

Photo sent from the boat DeVenir during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 30, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Violette Dorange

In the Pacific, Kiwi skipper Conrad Colman (MS AMILIN) braves the cold without fossil fuels, relying on an electrically heated jacket, peanut butter, and tea to stay warm.

“It’s strange routing for Cape Horn without extreme weather. It feels like a holiday, but the bitter cold is a constant challenge,” said Colman.

Finding solace at sea

Swiss skipper Ollie Heer (Tut Gut) in 30th place finds comfort in Harry Potter audiobooks as he enjoys relatively stress-free sailing. Heer shared his resolution for 2025:

“To finish the Vendée Globe and solidify my sailing plans for the next four years. For now, I’m focused on staying steady and looking after my boat.”

The year ahead

As the Vendée Globe enters 2025, each skipper continues to push personal and professional boundaries. Whether tackling light winds, celebrating milestones, or enduring the Southern Ocean’s chill, the spirit of this extraordinary race remains undiminished. For these sailors, the New Year brings the same goal: to complete one of the world’s greatest challenges.