Icy encounters test nerves
Sébastien Marsset, sailing Foussier and currently in 22nd place, was the first to report an iceberg. Marsset described the chilling moment he spotted the massive block of ice just four miles ahead of his IMOCA.
“I stuck my head out, and straight away I saw the iceberg. I was at 17 knots under a small gennaker, so it was all hands on deck. It’s nerve-wracking, as we scrutinise every foam, thinking it’s another piece of ice.”
Eric Bellion (STAND AS ONE – Altavia, 23rd) later filmed an iceberg at 54° south, marvelling at its beauty while acknowledging the danger:
“Icebergs are beautiful with expedition boats equipped with steel hulls but not with our carbon racing boats. For us, it’s terrifying.”
Meanwhile, Guirec Soudée (Freelance.com, 2nd) reduced his speed to avoid potential collisions, recalling a prior encounter with ice in a steel-hulled vessel.
Kiwi ingenuity: Conrad Colman captures the moment
New Zealand’s Conrad Colman (MS Amlin, 29th) seized the opportunity to capture footage of an iceberg using his drone. His quick thinking provided a rare and breathtaking perspective, despite the ever-present risks.
Leaders face light winds
At the front of the fleet, Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) and Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA) continue their battle in challenging light-wind conditions, separated by just 14 miles. The high-pressure system in their path has slowed progress, leaving both skippers averaging only seven knots.
Mid-fleet struggles and strategy
Further back, sailors like Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE) contend with complex weather systems and equipment fatigue. Goodchild’s analysis of the South Atlantic highlights the constant balancing act between speed, safety, and strategic positioning.
“It’s hard to find the best route. There’s no perfect option – storm clouds, light winds, or dynamic weather make it a stressful and physically demanding stretch.”
Cape Horn looms
For Romain Attanasio, the race’s notorious “runway to the Horn” is living up to its fearsome reputation. Approaching Cape Horn amidst 40-knot winds and rough seas, Attanasio reflected on the toughness of the Pacific:
“The Indian Ocean was tough, but the Pacific has been worse! It’s been stormy, with horrible seas. Reaching Cape Horn will feel like a hard-won milestone.”
And so the voyage continues
The Vendée Globe’s early days of 2025 have already delivered a mix of breathtaking natural beauty and high-stakes drama. From icy waters to dynamic weather systems, competitors are reminded of the immense challenges posed by this gruelling solo circumnavigation. For sailors and fans alike, this year promises to be an unforgettable chapter in the Vendée Globe’s storied history.
