SVR-Lazartigue trimaran embarks on quest for Jules Verne Trophy – Live onboard video
by Sodebo media 30 Nov 05:37 PST
SVR Lazartigue departs for Jules Verne record attempt – November 30, 2024 © Clement Gerbaud
With a crew of five men and one woman, the SVR-Lazartigue Trimaran, helmed by François Gabart, has commenced its Jules Verne Trophy attempt this Saturday, targeting the record for a crewed, non-stop round-the-world voyage without assistance.
Following a night spent analyzing weather data for optimal timing, the team crossed the starting line between the Créac’h lighthouse on Ouessant island and Lizard Point Lighthouse at 7:51:38 (UTC). The aim is to complete the journey in less than 40 days, 23 hours, 30 minutes, and 30 seconds, a record set in 2017 by Francis Joyon and his crew.
François Gabart indicated, “Early January!” as their target. On Friday afternoon, the six sailors departed from Concarneau, the home port of the SVR-Lazartigue Trimaran, in front of a large crowd that gathered for the send-off.
There was undoubtedly a lot of emotion. After spending the night near the starting line reviewing weather files to optimize the launch time, the trimaran set sail at 7:51:38 (UTC). Having already set the solo round-the-world record in 42 days (December 2027), François Gabart and his team are now taking on the ultimate challenge: attempting to claim the most prestigious sailing record, the Holy Grail. Securing the Jules Verne Trophy means achieving the fastest trip around the globe and etching a remarkable chapter in ocean racing’s history.
Since the official standby began on November 18, all eyes have been on the weather conditions in the North Atlantic, with hopes of finding a favorable opportunity for this incredible challenge. That opportunity arose at the end of the week. “There is potential for an attempt,” François Gabart observed. “The start will be upwind in strong winds and very rough seas. Once we navigate through these tough conditions, it should go well all the way to the equator and beyond.”
On Thursday, the orange alert (start possible within 72 hours) was issued, then shifted to green (imminent start) by Friday morning. “We have a challenging window, but records are meant to be challenged,” the skipper stated. “I’m thrilled to attempt this record with this team and this boat. It’s the culmination of years of effort. To conquer this challenge, we need a solid boat, and the SVR-Lazartigue Trimaran is both capable and mature. We also need a great team, whether on board or on land, plus a little luck— we’ll do everything possible to seize it. Even if I continue sailing, this may be my last round-the-world record attempt, and I’m delighted to do it under these circumstances. We know some breakage is inevitable; I just hope it’s minor. You can’t sail around the world without facing issues. We must effectively manage any problems to maintain the boat’s performance. It would be remarkable to break the 40-day barrier. Our goal is to navigate the SVR-Lazartigue Trimaran continuously around the world. If we accomplish that, we will have achieved our mission.”
Having departed on November 10, the IMOCA fleet in the Vendée Globe may witness the big blue trimaran passing by. “If we’re in record territory, it’s likely,” the skipper confirmed. “After following the race from the land, we’ll join it at sea. Even though the Vendée Globe competitors left quickly, there’s a chance we might overtake them in the southern oceans or the South Atlantic on the return route. It’s exciting to see so much activity in offshore racing globally.”
Having set out solo almost a year ago on the SVR-Lazartigue Trimaran during the Arkéa Ultime Challenge, but forced to retire due to a major breakdown in the South Atlantic, Tom Laperche is eager for this fresh start. “Last winter, my round-the-world race ended prematurely,” he remarked. “It’s wonderful to depart again with a crew. The Jules Verne Trophy is one of sailing’s historic challenges and holds significant importance in an ocean racing career. I cherish my incredible memories from the southern seas, so returning with a crew is thrilling. We are a strong team, eager to circle the globe as swiftly as possible. The boat is designed for it. In ocean racing, there’s always a tension between wanting to push the throttle and managing the vessel. Our strategy will determine when speed is critical. It’s a human journey, but we also need to navigate the mechanics over 40 days in nature’s realm. We’re setting out to sail swiftly on the oceans for 40 days, and we’re even hoping for a bit less…” To succeed, we must finish before Friday, January 10, 2025, at 7:51:38 (UTC).
“This record attempt is unique because we went to bed Thursday night uncertain about embarking. By Friday morning, we were having breakfast contemplating the departure, and the decision materialized late that morning. I pondered how I would react, and ultimately, it’s exhilarating. We were fortunate to not wait long since the standby period began. Our mindset is now focused on winning. We are fully committed to the record, but if we find in a few days that conditions are no longer favorable, we will have to accept retrying later instead of stubbornly adhering to a poor option. For now, however, the opportunity is genuinely on.
Completing a round-the-world race in 40 days is extraordinarily ambitious, but the SVR Lazartigue Trimaran possesses everything required for success. It’s incredibly fast. We have a fantastic tool at our disposal and must care for it and harness its full potential. The team is also perfectly structured for this record. François has meticulously considered its composition, and everything has flowed smoothly since preparations began. The closer we get to the start, the more I appreciate the luck we’re experiencing and the significance of this challenge we must honor. I’m excited!
