Leaders push north
Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA) and Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) are the first skippers to leave the ice exclusion zone behind, marking the end of a high-pressure ridge that has tested their patience since December 12. With speeds now exceeding 20 knots, Richomme has held a steady lead of 13–14 miles over Dalin.
Third-placed Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) faces a more challenging path as he contends with lighter winds near the Falklands. Navigating west of the islands to avoid their lee, Simon anticipates faster speeds once he clears the current front, though the South Atlantic remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE) is making steady progress toward Cape Horn. Having retired during the 2016 race, Ruyant’s successful rounding this time would mark a significant personal and professional milestone.
Unprecedented activity at Cape Horn
Cape Horn’s iconic lighthouse will see its busiest period ever this weekend, with seven skippers within 207 miles of each other. Among them is Briton Sam Goodchild, sailing VULNERABLE, who is eagerly awaiting his first solo Cape Horn rounding.
“We’re expecting up to 35 knots of wind and five-metre seas,” Goodchild reported. “It’s a depression but nothing we haven’t faced before. I’m looking forward to heading north after spending so much time at 59 degrees south—it’s been incredible, but it’s time for a change.”
Careful strategy amid extremes
Further back, Sam Davies (Initiatives Coeur) has taken a more cautious approach to avoid the worst of a severe weather system. Her route, though longer, prioritises the preservation of her boat and equipment for the Atlantic leg of the race.
“I chose the good sailor option,” Davies explained. “The conditions south of this depression are extreme, with six-metre waves and strong winds. My goal is to be at 100% for the return trip up the Atlantic.”
Davies also reflected on symbolic moments, including her passage near Point Nemo, where she suffered a dismasting during her first round-the-world attempt. “I made an offering to Neptune for safe passage—it’s a tradition I hold close.”
The allure of the southern ocean
As the fleet prepares to turn northward, the Southern Ocean continues to amaze and challenge its sailors. While many skippers look forward to sunlight and warmer weather, the vast, untamed beauty of the south leaves a lasting impression.
“It’s incredible down here,” said Davies. “I am looking forward to the sun and warmth, but I also feel that this leg of the journey has passed too quickly.”
As the Vendée Globe fleet pushes through Cape Horn and into the South Atlantic, each skipper faces their own set of challenges and triumphs. From strategic decisions to personal milestones, the race remains a test of endurance, skill, and resilience—one that continues to captivate the sailing world.
