Navigating the storm
As the Vendée Globe fleet inches closer to the finish line at Les Sables d’Olonne, skippers Boris Herrmann (Malizia Seaexplorer) and Sam Davies (Initiatives Coeur) are braving formidable conditions in the Bay of Biscay. Both experienced sailors are in “prudent, safe mode,” adjusting their strategies to avoid the worst of a large storm sweeping through the region. With waves reaching heights of 12 metres and wind gusts exceeding 50 knots, these final miles are proving to be some of the toughest in the race.
Race director Hubert Lemonnier highlights the need for safety in these extreme conditions:
“Depending on how the weather develops, we will see if we activate the ‘storm line’ again, a finish gate four miles out from the main line which becomes the finish line in severe weather.”
Herrmann is set to cross the line tomorrow, securing 12th place, while Davies, approximately 78 miles behind, continues her cautious approach. For both skippers, completing this gruelling race will be a welcome relief after weeks of intense challenges at sea.
Battling the Bay of Biscay
The Bay of Biscay has long been a proving ground for sailors, and this year is no exception. Both Herrmann and Davies have had to contend with the immense physical and mental strain that comes with navigating in extreme weather. Davies, in particular, was forced to make a significant U-turn four days ago to avoid being caught in the heart of the storm, a decision that has likely spared her vessel from serious damage.
Meanwhile, logistical plans are underway for welcoming home the top finishing boats. IMOCAs MACIF Santé Prévoyance and Paprec Arkéa are expected to leave Port Olona on Thursday, returning to their home ports in Concarneau and Lorient, respectively. Discussions are also ongoing with race organisers about timing the celebratory return of Benjamin Dutreux (Guyot Environnement – Water Family) and Clarisse Crémer (L’Occitane en Provence).
A longer route for the trailing pack
While the front runners navigate their final approach, competitors further back face a different set of challenges. A growing high-pressure system near the Azores is forcing many skippers to take a much longer route westward, significantly adding to their journey. Weather consultant Christian Dumard explains:
“From Romain Attanasio (14th place) to Violette Dorange (26th), all the competitors seem to be passing to the west of the Azores, which significantly lengthens their route.”
This detour has created a unique dynamic within the trailing fleet. Yannick Bestaven (Maître CoQ IV), who is out of the race, and Romain Attanasio have already cleared the anticyclone and are making steady progress toward Les Sables d’Olonne. The skippers behind them, including Benjamin Ferré (19th place) and Jean Le Cam (23rd place), are benefiting from a low-pressure system, picking up speed as they head toward the finish.
Mini Vendée Globes within the fleet
For the sailors still racing, every mile counts. Jean Le Cam captured the spirit of this collective struggle during a morning video call:
“There are lots of mini-Vendée Globes. There was one between the top two, and there is one between all of us. After a while, you settle into a rhythm, and for me, it’s mixed emotions – you want to finish, but at the same time, I’m happy here.”
Alan Roura (Hublot), currently in 20th place, shares a similar sentiment. Reflecting on his journey, Roura admits that fatigue has taken its toll, recounting an amusing moment of confusion:
“Yesterday, I thought I saw a piece of the boat hanging down below… it was the propeller shaft! I understood then that I was really burned out. I decided to prioritise rest, and now I’m ready.”
With just days left in the race, Roura is preparing for a final sprint. “I’ve organised my last bag of food for the next six days. It feels strange to think this is really the end.”
The final push
As the fleet approaches the final stretch, the focus is on maintaining momentum and avoiding setbacks. For Roura and others, the journey isn’t just about crossing the finish line – it’s about savouring the experience and the camaraderie that comes with competing in one of the most challenging races in the world.
From Herrmann’s cautious navigation to Davies’ determination and the spirited efforts of the chasing pack, this year’s Vendée Globe continues to embody the resilience and passion that make offshore sailing such a unique and inspiring sport.
Taking the helm of adventure
The Vendée Globe has once again proven itself as the ultimate test of endurance, skill, and spirit. With the finish line in sight, these sailors remind us of the relentless drive and courage it takes to pursue a dream, no matter the obstacles.
