Vendée Globe: Ways to Watch the Start
by Vendée Globe Media 8 Nov 07:20 PST
10 November 2024
On Sunday, November 10, the 40 skippers of the Vendée Globe will commence the 10th edition of the iconic solo round-the-world race from Les Sables d’Olonne, France. Beginning at 0800hrs local time (0700hrs UTC), they will leave the pontoon at intervals of three minutes with their IMOCA boats.
Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance), a favorite to win, will be the first to depart. The sailors will then navigate down the renowned channel into the open sea, giving spectators a chance to say goodbye one last time. For the sailors, their teams, and the thousands of supporters who will line the channel, it’s a deeply emotional and historic moment. The official start of the Vendée Globe is at 1302hrs (1202hrs UTC).
Preparations will intensify on Saturday, November 9, with activities from teams peaking. To ensure the safety and operational efficiency for skippers and teams, the pontoon will be off-limits to the public from Saturday through Sunday afternoon. A large turnout is expected in the village leading up to the start.
Watch the start from your home.
The organization will produce two Start Live programs: the first from 0730hrs to 1030hrs for the pontoon and channel departures, and the second from 1215hrs to 1400hrs for the sea start. With advanced technology providing real-time data and new graphics, these live broadcasts promise excitement, information, and entertainment for viewers.
There are several ways for spectators to follow the start from home:
Start Live on television.
This will be broadcast worldwide across 190 territories.
In France, viewers can tune in via France 3, L’Equipe, Infosport+, MAX platform, or during TF1, France 2, and M6 news programs. Throughout the day, major non-stop news channels (CNEWS, BFM TV, FranceInfo, LCI) will cover the start, alongside many regional channels (TV Vendée, Tébéo, Tébésud, etc.) that will also broadcast the event live.
Globally, particularly in the countries of international skippers, the start of this round-the-world race will be widely televised:
– In the United Kingdom on TNT Sports.
– In Germany: platforms of ARD/ZDF Group.
– In Belgium: RTBF, VRT, DH, as well as channels LN24 and Sport10.
– In Switzerland: RTS platform and Leman Bleu channel.
– In Hungary: MTVA and Hir TV.
– In the United States: Outside TV.
– In China: CCTV.
– In New Zealand: Sky Sports.
In total, 66 TV channels and digital platforms will showcase the live start.
Digital viewing.
The event will stream live on Vendée Globe’s YouTube channel, the race website, and the official Facebook page. It will also be available on Sail-World.com and YachtsandYachting.com homepages.
Viewing at Les Sables d’Olonne.
The Vendée Globe village opens at 0700hrs on the start day. As with all other days, having your e-ticket is essential. Giant screens will display live broadcasts, and stands will remain open until 8 p.m. to enhance the experience.
The Les Sables d’Olonne channel.
Spectators can gather along the channel, which will feature sound for this event, to cheer on the 40 boats as they pass. Due to the anticipated large crowds, the organization requests all attendees to show respect and consideration for each other to ensure an optimal experience. A giant screen will be set up on the La Chaume side at the base of the Arundel Tower.
Viewing from the embankment.
The main beach of Les Sables d’Olonne also offers a view of the start; binoculars are advisable for a better viewing experience. A giant screen will be placed at the nautical base near the channel, facing the large beach to enjoy the Start Live broadcast.
Please note, traffic disruptions will take place in Les Sables d’Olonne starting on the evening of November 9; all relevant information can be found on the city’s official website.
Refer to the traffic plan.
Alternative viewing spots in the area.
For those seeking less crowded locations, the beaches at Tanchet, Puits d’Enfer, Cayola Bay, and the beaches of La Paracou and Sauveterre* also offer views of the starting area, though binoculars are necessary for a good view.
*These areas are designated Natura 2000 sites (SPA FR5400469 Pertuis Charentais & SPA FR5212015 Marine Sector of Île d’Yeu). The organization urges the public to preserve these delicate ecosystems by staying on marked trails, adhering to site instructions, disposing of waste properly, and avoiding trampling, which could threaten local wildlife.
On the water.
Boaters can also observe the start from a designated area, which can be viewed on the Vendée Globe interactive map. Port Olona will be closed from 0600hrs to 1130hrs, with only departures permitted from 1130hrs to 1300hrs. Safety protocols and heightened caution are crucial for a successful departure at sea. GPS coordinates for these zones, along with the prefectural decree, are available for download on the website.
With this comprehensive plan, everyone can fully experience the excitement of this departure, a moment filled with intensity that celebrates adventure and challenge!
