Regatta Mode Takes Over as Vendée Globe’s Peloton Tackles Light Winds

For these sailors, the abrupt shift from open-ocean stress to close-quarters “regatta mode” has been dramatic. Briton Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE) has taken a bold step, opting for a coastal route through the Le Maire Strait in search of better breeze. This strategic gamble appears to be paying off, with Goodchild gaining on Jérémie Beyou (Charal) and Nico Lunven (HOLCIM PRB) in fifth and sixth.

Front-runners consolidate positions

Further ahead, Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE) and Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) are holding strong in fourth and third places. Simon has been the fleet’s fastest over the past 24 hours, capitalising on downwind conditions that suit his boat’s design.

Photo sent from the boat VULNERABLE skipper Thomas Ruyant (FRA) during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 27, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Thomas Ruyant

“The conditions are great at the moment because they allow me to quickly head towards the North North-East racing downwind. It’s ideal, though the wind remains unstable. It’s nice to rack up miles and be the fastest in the group,” Simon shared.

However, Simon is cautious about the days ahead. A calm zone is expected to slow him down by tomorrow, potentially allowing the chasing pack to close the gap. He remains focused on finding a way through to the southeast trade winds, a critical juncture in the race.

Daggerboard group battles on

Behind the peloton, the daggerboard boat group is engaged in an intense and relentless contest. Seb Marsset (Foussier) described the challenge:

Photo sent from the boat FOUSSIER during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 28, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Sébastien Marsset

“The match being played out on the daggerboard boats is crazy! You have to push hard all the time and constantly monitor your progress compared to your rivals. It’s extremely absorbing.”

With over 10,000 miles still to race, Marsset and his competitors are walking a fine line between tactical aggression and long-term endurance.

Rest and resilience

As Simon and others take the opportunity to recover from weeks of relentless pressure in the Southern Ocean, the importance of rest and recharge is clear. Simon noted that catching up on sleep has eased his mental and physical strain, preparing him for the intense North Atlantic ahead.

Photo sent from the boat Groupe Dubreuil during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 28, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Sébastien Simon

looking forward

The Vendée Globe continues to showcase its unique mix of endurance and strategy. For the leaders and chasers alike, the coming days will be pivotal, with weather conditions and tactical decisions playing a critical role in shaping the race’s next phase. From regatta-style battles to solo endurance tests, the drama of this epic journey shows no signs of abating.