North Atlantic Storm Looms as Vendée Globe Skippers Face Final Test

The Final Sting

The notorious Bay of Biscay, a historical source of hardship in the Vendée Globe, will test skippers such as Sam Goodchild (Vulnerable) and Jérémie Beyou (Charal), who are locked in a close battle for 4th place. For others, like 13th-placed Sam Davies (Initiatives Coeur), the challenge will be survival and safe arrival.

Photo sent from the boat VULNERABLE SG during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 17, 2025. Photo credit: skipper Sam Goodchild

“The depression is progressing faster and further east,” Beyou explained. “One of us will hit it head-on, but we don’t know who yet. It’s a waiting game.”

Beyou, a three-time La Solitaire du Figaro winner, expressed concern about the conditions:

“Everything is worn out—equipment, the boats, and ourselves. Mistakes in these conditions could be catastrophic.”

Déjà Vu for Crémer

For Clarisse Crémer (L’Occitane en Provence), the storm’s forecast is eerily reminiscent of the 2021 Vendée Globe. She admitted her longing for a calmer finish:

“I’ve dreamed of a quiet finish, but that’s not on the horizon. The depression is slowing, and now it’s coming for us.”

Photo sent from the boat L’Occitane en Provence during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 17, 2025. Photo credit: skipper Clarisse Crémer

Crémer also voiced envy for the top three skippers, who finished their race without encountering this North Atlantic ordeal.

Navigating Fatigue and Equipment Strain

The physical and mental toll of the race is palpable among the skippers. Switzerland’s Justine Mettraux (TeamWork – Team Snef), currently in 8th, highlighted the challenges of navigating these conditions:

“The boats and sailors are worn out. We have to stay vigilant to protect the equipment and ensure we make it to the finish.”

For those further back, slowing down to avoid the worst conditions would mean conceding time and positions, leaving skippers to face the storm head-on.

Photo sent from the boat TeamWork – Team Snef during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 16, 2025 – Photo credit: skipper Justine Mettraux

A Battle for Survival and Positions

As the finish line nears, the stakes are high for all skippers. Whether fighting for key leaderboard positions or simply aiming to cross the line safely, this storm represents the ultimate test in endurance and seamanship.

Stay tuned for updates as these extraordinary sailors navigate their final, daunting challenge in the Vendée Globe. Will they conquer the storm, or will the storm conquer them?