Blazing speeds in perfect conditions
Simon’s remarkable feat came as the leading pack of the Vendée Globe capitalised on a powerful low-pressure system north of Rio de Janeiro. Benefiting from steady 24-26 knot winds and relatively flat seas, Simon’s yacht—originally designed by Verdier and formerly raced as 11th Hour—showcased its pedigree.
“The boat is doing really well,” Simon reported. “It’s an incredible distance. I never imagined hitting these speeds, but the conditions are perfect, and I’m staying with the front group all the way to Cape Agulhas.”
Indeed, Simon wasn’t alone in shattering benchmarks. Six other skippers, including Charlie Dalin (Macif Santé Prévoyance), Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE), and Nicolas Lunven (Holcim – PRB), reached more than 560 nautical miles / 24 hours.
Jérémie Beyou (Charal), recovering from an earlier knee injury, was another standout performer.
High-speed records and tactics
The conditions have transformed this segment of the Vendée Globe into a tactical sprint. Weather expert Basile Rochut notes, “The first six boats are maintaining 30-knot winds until tomorrow, enabling them to keep pushing hard.”
Simon and his competitors face critical strategic choices. Some may opt for a direct route through a narrow wind corridor, while others might venture south to avoid the treacherous Agulhas Current. Regardless, the immediate goal is maintaining blistering speeds without compromising safety.
Thrills and challenges of high-speed sailing
Sailing at such extreme speeds comes with its own set of challenges. Jack Bouttell, who sailed 11th Hour during The Ocean Race, praised Simon’s performance: “When these boats exceed 23 knots, it feels like the world’s going to end. The noises from the rig, foils, and alarms are relentless.”
For Simon, the risks are part of the reward. His record-breaking run showcases the cutting-edge design and engineering of IMOCA 60 yachts, as well as his skill in navigating the fine line between speed and safety.
The rest of the fleet
Not all skippers are enjoying such favourable conditions. Germany’s Boris Herrmann (Malizia Seaexplorer), in 11th place, is nearly 500 miles behind the leaders. “We’re trailing the edge of the front, so the wind is less stable,” he explained. “The leaders are in a lucky spot, but the race is far from over.”
Swiss skipper Justine Mettraux (TeamWork-Team Snef) faced a setback when her J0 headsail sustained irreparable damage. Despite this, Mettraux managed to recover the sail and minimise further complications.
A record-breaking race
As the fleet barrels toward the Cape of Good Hope, Simon’s record may not stand for long. The Vendée Globe continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in offshore racing, with skippers navigating the delicate balance of speed, strategy, and endurance.
With the Southern Ocean still ahead, the race promises even more drama. For now, Sébastien Simon’s remarkable achievement is a testament to his skill, determination, and the ever-evolving performance of modern ocean racing yachts.
