Aiming For A Record
After a slow Equator crossing, Dalin and the leaders are now poised to surpass Alex Thomson’s 2016 record of 8 days, 15 hours for the Equator-to-Cape of Good Hope leg. Routing predictions suggest the leaders will cross the Cape’s longitude tomorrow midday, potentially setting a new benchmark.
However, the milestone comes with challenges. The Cape of Good Hope is infamous for its fierce winds and the unpredictable Agulhas Current. “The Cape is the most difficult place due to the strong winds and adverse currents,” said Charles Caudrelier, winner of the Arkéa Ultim Challenge, on the Vendée live show. “Everything can change in an instant.”
Preparing For The South
The fleet is transitioning from a fast-paced depression into a calmer patch before hooking into the Austral low-pressure systems that characterise the Southern Ocean. After nearly 12 days of straight sailing on port tack, the skippers are preparing to execute their first gybes—a significant tactical and physical manoeuvre.
Photo sent from the boat HOLCIM – PRB during the Vendee Globe sailing race on November 26, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Nicolas Lunven
Nicolas Lunven (Holcim – PRB) noted the relief of lighter winds and calmer seas. “Since this morning, conditions have become more bearable. After 12 days on port tack, my right leg feels bigger than my left! It’s good to prepare for the next phase.”
Lighter conditions over the next 48 hours provide an opportunity for rest, repairs, and re-evaluation. “It’s a chance to rest, eat, and get the boat ready for what’s next,” Lunven added.
Managing Setbacks
Not all skippers are entering the transition unscathed. Justine Mettraux (TeamWork – Groupe Snef) faced damage to her J0 headsail but remains focused. “The J0 is not critical in the Southern Ocean, so I’m not heavily impacted. I’ll use the light conditions to prepare for what lies ahead.”
Mettraux also commented on the changing conditions as the fleet moves southward. “The sea temperature is dropping, and it’s cooler onboard, which changes how you operate. It’s about staying comfortable while keeping the boat in peak condition.”
Fleet Dynamics
While the leaders face their own challenges, the chasing pack, led by Arnaud Boissières (La Mie Câline), continues to push forward. This group is expected to round the Cape of Good Hope five days behind the leaders. Damien Seguin (Groupe APICIL) and others are aiming to leverage a new depression over the weekend to minimise their time deficit.
Agulhas Current: A Critical Test
The Agulhas Current is a notorious hazard. With speeds of 3-4 knots and chaotic interactions with the wind, the current can create towering waves, including rogue waves up to 30 metres high. “It’s difficult to understand and navigate,” Lunven remarked, underlining the importance of vigilance in these treacherous waters.
Into The Southern Ocean
As the fleet prepares to enter the Southern Ocean, the stakes grow higher. The region promises relentless downwind runs, extreme weather, and punishing conditions. For the skippers, this marks a psychological turning point in their round-the-world journey.
The Cape of Good Hope is more than a milestone; it’s a massive test. The next few days will push these sailors and their vessels to the limit, promising a thrilling chapter in this ultimate solo sailing challenge.
