Visit Vendée Globe, the solo race around the world

Visit Vendée Globe is a solo, nonstop, and unassisted sailing race that circles the globe, passing through the three legendary capes: the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, and Cape Horn. Considered one of the most challenging races in the world, this competition puts even the most seasoned sailors to the test.

The Vendée Globe – Event Guidelines

Created in 1989 by Philippe Jeantot, the race takes place every four years. Skippers set off from Les Sables-d'Olonne at Vendée, sail approximately 45,000 kilometers around the globe, rounding the three legendary capes (the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, and finally Cape Horn) before returning to Les Sables d’Olonne. This extreme adventure is often dubbed «the Everest of the seas» because of its difficulty.

The stages of the race

The Vendée Globe route is divided into several key phases:

1. Departure from Les Sables-d’Olonne : The skippers set sail in November, often braving the storms of the Bay of Biscay.

2. Down the Atlantic : They are sailing through the trade winds and the Doldrums, a zone of unpredictable calm near the equator.

3. Passing the three capes :

   • Cape of Good Hope : Entering the Indian Ocean.
   • Cape Leeuwin : Approaching the South Pacific Ocean.
   • Cape Horn : Back to the North Atlantic.

4. Crossing the Atlantic : The final stretch to Les Sables-d’Olonne, which is often marked by difficult weather conditions.

Boats: IMOCA class

Competitors sail on 18-meter monohulls called IMOCAs. These boats are designed for performance and to withstand extreme ocean conditions. The latest models are equipped with foils—lateral appendages that allow the boat to «fly» above the water, thereby increasing speed and reducing drag.

Vendée Globe 2024

A legendary race and its challenges

Visit Vendée Globe 2024-2025 is the tenth edition of this solo competition, non-stop and non-assistedaboard 18m IMOCA boats, starting from Les Sables-d'Olonne on November 10-11, 2024. The skippers cover around 45,000 km around the 3 famous capes: Good Hope, Leeuwin and Cape Horn, before returning to their starting point.. With 40 entries, including rookies, six women and two disabled competitors, it's the biggest line-up in history..

Vendée Globe 2024 - Record and performance

Le Français Charlie Dalinon the boat MACIF Santé Prévoyancewon this edition in 64 d 19 h 22 min 49 s, shattering the record by almost 9 days.. He led the ranking for 42 days, particularly in the South Atlantic, thanks to his latest-generation IMOCA foilers.. Only 22 h 47 min behind, Yoann Richomme finishes second, and Sébastien Simon takes third place.

Technological performance

The third-generation foilers dominated, thanks to faster, more reliable trajectories and weather records such as the distance covered in 24 hours. . IMOCA boats also use hydrogenerators for onboard power, which are smaller and more reliable than wind turbines..

Vendée Globe 2024 - A concrete commitment to science

25 skippers embarked instruments to support oceanographic research and weather forecasting, in partnership with WMO and UNESCO. The event focuses on the ocean preservationmaking this race a formidable vector ofecology and awareness .

Vendée Globe course and major incidents

Among the early dropouts, Maxime Sorel went out on November 15, due to damage and injury, supplying Madeira.. Several boats suffered technical breakdowns in the Indian Ocean and South Seas. In spite of this, the majority of foilers demonstrated increased reliability compared with previous editions

Vendée Globe 2024 - Singular stories and destinies

The young Violette Dorange23 years old, nicknamed the "Little Thumb", has attracted attention with her loaned Imoca and innovative financing, inspiring many young people. Le Monde.fr. Clarisse Crémer also made his mark after repairing his boat in the Azores and overcoming personal difficulties to take the start..

Dates of the next edition of the Vendée Globe

The next Vendée Globe is scheduled for November 2028. The skippers will once again set sail from Les Sables-d’Olonne for a solo round-the-world race.

Vendée Globe Ranking 2024-2025

Visit Vendée Globe 2024-2025 was marked by exceptional performances, including a new record set by the winner. Here are the rankings of the first skippers to cross the finish line:

1. Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance)

   • Arrival Date January 14, 2025 at 07:24 UTC
   • Running time 64 days, 19 hours, 22 minutes and 49 seconds
   • Distance covered 27,668 nautical miles
   • Average speed : 17.79 knots
   • Note : New race record

2. Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA)

   • Arrival Date January 15, 2025 at 06:12 UTC
   • Running time 65 days, 18 hours, 10 minutes and 2 seconds
   • Distance covered 28,326 nautical miles
   • Average speed : 17.95 knots
   • Gap to the leader 22 hours, 47 minutes and 13 seconds

3. Sébastien Simon (Dubreuil Group)

   • Arrival Date January 17, 2025 at 00:27 UTC
   • Running time 67 days, 12 hours, 25 minutes and 37 seconds
   • Distance covered 27,807 nautical miles
   • Average speed : 17.16 knots
   • Gap to the leader 2 days, 17 hours, 2 minutes and 48 seconds

4. Jérémie Beyou (Charal)

   • Arrival Date January 24, 2025 at 00:58 UTC
   • Running time 74 days, 12 hours, 56 minutes and 54 seconds
   • Distance covered 29,049 nautical miles
   • Average speed : 16.24 knots
   • Gap to the leader 10 days, 3 hours, 15 minutes and 26 seconds

5. Paul Meilhat (Biotherm)

   • Arrival Date January 24, 2025 at 10:40 UTC
   • Running time 74 days, 22 hours, 38 minutes and 15 seconds
   • Distance covered 28,051 nautical miles
   • Average speed : 15.61 knots
   • Gap to the leader 10 days, 12 hours, 26 minutes and 52 seconds

Vendée Globe Ranking - rules and calculations

Here's a clear, structured overview of RANKING RULES and calculation methods of the Vendée Globestill based on the real timewith specific elements relating to safety and qualifications.

Ranking based on real time

Ranking is based exclusively on on total time spent at seafrom start to finish, without any odds or points system. It is therefore a pure chronometry. A ranking is published until 6 times a dayto keep skippers and crews informed in near real time.

Publication and jury adjustments

These daily rankings are then validated by the Race Direction (DC). It implements all juryincluding time penalties for non-compliance with rules (ice zoning, DST, etc.), which can modify positions.

Exclusive zones and penalties

• Antarctic Exclusion Zones (AEZ) Iceberg avoidance: imposed to avoid icebergs. The 72 geo-graphical points can be updated during the race..

• Other restricted areas DST (maritime traffic), pirate risk zones. Failure to comply may result in penalties or added times.

External assistance and intervention

The founding rule is no assistance, no stopoversexcept in two cases:

1. Rescue of another competitor in distress,

2. Back to start again within 10 days of departure.
   Apart from these exceptions, no outside assistance is permitted—or else disqualification will result.

Safety and continuous monitoring

The Race Direction operates a 24/7 monitoring of the fleet. It can impose exceptional guidelines (weather, geopolitics...) to ensure safety, and to decide to redirection (routing) of a skipper in distress.

Prizes and prizes

After validation of the final ranking, a prize of 800 000 € is distributed among the first - decreasing to the 8ᵉ place. Example:

• 1st: €200,000

• 2ᵉ : 140 000 €

• ...

• 8ᵉ : 30 000 €.

Qualification for the next edition

Although this does not affect the ranking during the Vendée Globe, this 2024-25 edition counts towards a qualification system for 2028.

• A system 4 years Participation and results in the IMOCA Globe Series earn points according to race level (grades 1 to 4)..

• The three worst results can be excluded of the total, and 3 wild cards are awarded at the organizer's discretion.

Vendée Globe Ranking - Summary of key elements

What does all this mean?

• Visit skippers compete solowith the precision of official stopwatch as the only metric.

• Visit safety at sea premium, with constant monitoring and strict rules on high-risk areas.

• The ranking can be modified afterwards to comply with the rules, but remains transparent.

• The Vendée Globe is also a determining factor for future qualification cycles: performance counts well beyond the finish line.

Vendée Globe Direct

The "Vendée Globe direct" window: follow the race in real time

With the Vendée Globe directenthusiasts have access to a permanent monitoring positions, speeds and trajectories of IMOCA boats at sea. The official system, developed by Geovoileretransmits data every four hoursThanks to the Inmarsat connections on board each boat. These regular updates enable us to keep track of the fleet and guarantee the reliability of our services. skipper safety .

How to interpret live data

The tracker displays several key pieces of information:

• Updated GPS position, latitude/longitude & speed

• Integrated weather conditions, wind and pressure, collated with trajectories

• Distance between boats
  In this way, we analyze not only who is in the lead, but also why in terms of weather strategy.

Multi-platform access

Access to the Vendée Globe direct is available via :

• Visit official websitewith a map of the race and live news feeds

• L'official mobile application (iOS and Android), featuring live tracking, statistics and exclusive content

• From daily live videos ("Vendée Live") at around 12:30 pm, on YouTube and networks, with interviews and briefing

What the live feed reveals at sea

Thanks to the live view, you can see :

• Visit leaderboards and gaps between boats, particularly in key areas such as trade winds and southern seas

• Visit tactical evolutions rerouting through the doldrums, bypassing weather systems

• Actual incidents: damage, delays, reported icebergs (Antarctic exclusion zone adjusted live)

Live tracking highlights

1. Total transparency - each fan can build his own analysis

2. Enhanced safety - race management constantly scans the boats

3. Real-time interaction - communities comment on strategies

4. Immersion guaranteedthanks to live videos and hyper-precise data

Community testimonials

Platforms such as Le Monde, Yacht.de or Facebook groups regularly report public reactions:

"The tracker is often more talked about than the race itself: every trajectory shift triggers a flood of comments".

Why choose direct?

• For pure fans View the duel between foiler sailboats

• For weather strategists Analyze the workings of the weather

• For the curious see technology live in real time (hydrogenerators, foils, routing)

Vendée Globe direct review

The "Vendée Globe direct" system transforms an ultra-demanding race into a accessible showa blend of technology, strategy and emotion. Whether you're an amateur or an expert, this real-time window offers you a glimpse precise and lively on skippers' trajectories and decisions.

Previous Vendée Globe winners

Here is the list of winners from previous editions:

• 1989-1990 Titouan Lamazou in 109 days 8 hours 47 minutes.
• 1992-1993 Alain Gautier in 110 days 2 hours 22 minutes
• 1996-1997 Christophe Auguin in 105 days 20 hours 31 minutes.
• 2000-2001 Michel Desjoyeaux in 93 days 3 hours 57 minutes.
• 2004-2005 Vincent Riou in 87 days 10 hours 47 minutes.
• 2008-2009 Michel Desjoyeaux in 84 days 3 hours 9 minutes
• 2012-2013 François Gabart in 78 days 2 hours 16 minutes.
• 2016-2017 : Armel Le Cléac’h in 74 days, 3 hours, and 35 minutes.
• 2020-2021 Yannick Bestaven in 80 days 3 hours 44 minutes.
• 2024-2025 Charlie Dalin in 64 days 19 hours 22 minutes.

Practical information

To watch the start or finish of the Vendée Globe, it’s a good idea to arrive in Les Sables-d’Olonne a few days in advance. The city offers a variety of race-related events, and the Vendée Globe village provides a total immersion in the world of sailing.

Vendée Globe boats: IMOCA with or without Foil

The Vendée Globe racing aboard monohulls 18.28 metres long belonging to the IMOCA (International Monohull Open Class Association). These boats are designed to withstand extreme ocean conditions and push the limits of offshore racing performance. There are two main categories of IMOCA boats: the IMOCA hydrofoils and Classic daggerboard IMOCA.

IMOCA Foil boats: state-of-the-art technology

Since 2016, the integration of foils on IMOCA boats has revolutionized the Vendée Globe. These curved lateral appendages, resembling large wings, enable the boat to «to fly» over the water by reducing resistance and increasing speed.

Characteristics of IMOCA boats with foils :

• Significant speed gains : Foils reduce the surface area in contact with the water and increase lift, which can allow skippers to reach speeds exceeding 35 knots under optimum conditions.
• Greater stability at high speeds : By lifting the hull out of the water, the foils reduce the impact of waves and improve the skipper's comfort.
• Difficulty of maneuvering At very high speeds, hydrofoil IMOCAs become more unstable and require constant vigilance.
• Sensitivity to damage The foils are exposed to impacts from floating objects (UFOs), which can cause serious damage in the middle of a race.
• High cost IMOCA foils are more expensive to design and maintain than their conventional counterparts.

Examples of recent IMOCA boats with foils:

• Apivia (Charlie Dalin)
• LinkedOut (Thomas Ruyant)
• Charal (Jérémie Beyou)
• Hugo Boss (Alex Thomson)

IMOCA no-foil boats: Reliability and robustness

IMOCA boats without foils, also known as monohulls with straight daggerboards, are the models used before the introduction of foils in 2016. Some skippers prefer these boats because of their reliability and their strength in the face of oceanic constraints.

Characteristics of IMOCA boats without foils :

• Proven robustness These boats are often stronger and more suited to long single-handed races.
• Less maintenance during races With no foils, the risk of breakage is reduced, limiting repairs in the open sea.
• Lower pure speed performance Although very fast, these IMOCA boats are no match for the new generation of hydrofoils in optimal conditions.
• Better behavior in formed seas IMOCA boats without foils are better able to handle big waves without the risk of uncontrolled gliding.

Examples of recent IMOCA boats without foils:

• Yes We Cam! (Jean Le Cam)
• La Mie Câline - Artisans Artipôle (Arnaud Boissières)
• Apicil Group (Damien Seguin)

Foil or No Foil: What's the Difference in Racing?

The race so far has shown that IMOCA foiling yachts now dominate in terms of pure speed. However, in certain conditions, classic monohulls remain competitive.

In strong winds and heavy seas IMOCA boats without foils can benefit from their stability and robustness.

In reaching gaits and carrying (wind coming from astern or from the sides): IMOCA foiling yachts are much fasterreaching impressive speeds.

On the 2020-2021 Vendée Globethe winner Yannick Bestaven proved that an older-generation IMOCA can still compete with hydrofoil boats thanks to better strategic management and increased reliability.

Today, all new IMOCA boats are designed with foils., because speed has become a decisive factor in major offshore races.

Conclusion: Towards a Generation 100% Foil?

The introduction of foils marked a technological revolution in the Vendée Globe, making the race faster and more spectacular. However, reliability remains a key issueSome skippers still prefer boats with classic daggerboards for their robustness.

Future Vendée Globe races should see the emergence of new IMOCA boats even more efficient and optimizedwith more resistant foils and ever more innovative designs for pushing the limits of solo sailing.

Jean Le Cam and the Vendée Globe: A Legend in Ocean Racing

Jean Le Cam, affectionately nicknamed «King John»is one of the most emblematic sailors of the Vendée Globe. A seasoned skipper, he is known for his tenacity, humor and vast experience in solo sailing. Since his first participation in 2004, he has left his mark on the history of this legendary race through his performances and exploits.

Jean Le Cam's Vendée Globe career

2004-2005: A Promising First Podium

For its first participationJean Le Cam finishes one outstanding second placejust behind Vincent Riou. On board BonduelleHe has already demonstrated his talent and ability to compete with the world's best skippers.

2008-2009: An Epic Shipwreck

In the following edition, he took part with a new-generation IMOCA, VM Matériaux. But while sailing close to the Cape Hornhis boat capsized following keel damage. He spends 16 hours trapped in his upturned monohull, until his spectacular rescue by Vincent Riouwho hijacks his boat to rescue him.

This landmark event made him a hero of the Vendée Globe, illustrating the unique spirit of solidarity between skippers. Unfortunately, his rescue led to Riou's retirement, as he damaged his boat in the process.

2012-2013: A Difficult Return

After his shipwreck, Jean Le Cam returns in 2012 with SynerCielan older boat. He ran a cautious race and managed to finish in third place. fifth positionproving once again its mastery of the oceans.

2016–2017: A Rewarding Experience

On board an older-generation ship, Finistère Mer VentJean Le Cam's experience and experience intelligent race management. Despite an IMOCA without foils, he finished sixthbeating several skippers equipped with newer, faster boats.

2020-2021 : An Epic Rescue and Top 4

The Edition 2020-2021 is one of the most memorable moments of Jean Le Cam's career. He competed in a 2008 IMOCA, Yes We Cam!a much older boat than the favourites.

The Rescue by Kevin Escoffier

The most memorable moment of this edition occurred when Kevin Escoffieron board PRBtriggers its distress beacon after a sinking in the South Atlantic. Jean Le Cam is the first skipper to receive the alertand despite the extreme conditions, he succeeded in fishing Escoffier out of the nightonce again demonstrating the legendary solidarity of the Vendée Globe.

This heroic rescue was hailed by the sailing community and the public, and Jean Le Cam became an icon of courage and selflessness at sea.

An Exceptional Classification

Despite an older boat and this detour to save Escoffier, Jean Le Cam finishes fourth after the time compensation granted to him for his rescue action. He thus proves that with intelligent navigation, great experience and a mind of steelHe's still capable of competing with the best skippers, even at 61.

Jean Le Cam, A Skipper Apart

Jean Le Cam embodies the spirit of the Vendée Globe A passionate sailor, committed to the values of solidarity and humility. Unlike other skippers who rely on cutting-edge technology and ultra-modern boats, he prioritizes knowledge of his IMOCA and endurance in the face of the elements.

His humor, simplicity and outspokenness make him one of the sailors most appreciated by the public and his peers. His on-the-water debriefings, often punctuated by reflections full of derision and good humorhave become a cult among sailing fans.

For more adventures in the Vendée, discover Puy du Fou!

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ Vendée Globe

How can I follow the Vendée Globe?

To make sure you don't miss a thing on this extraordinary adventure, there are several options available to you:

• Television : France Télévisions and other networks are broadcasting key moments of the race live, including the starts and finishes.

• Social networking The official Vendée Globe pages on YouTube and Facebook offer live broadcasts, analyses and summaries.

• Official website The Vendée Globe website offers interactive cartography to track the skippers' positions in real time, up-to-date rankings and multimedia content associated with each stage of the race.

How do I sign up to visit the Vendée Globe village?

The Vendée Globe Village is a must-visit spot to soak up the race atmosphere. To access the village, you must make a free online reservation. Here’s how to do it:

1. Access the online ticketing service Visit the official Vendée Globe website to book your visit.

2. Choose your time slot : Select the date and time of your visit based on availability.

3. Confirm your reservation Once you've chosen your time slot, complete your registration to receive your electronic ticket.

Please note that the village stalls are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., while the bar and restaurant remain open until 1 a.m. (2 a.m. on Friday through Sunday). After 8 p.m., the bar and restaurant are open to the public without the need for a reservation.

For the best experience, we recommend checking the crowd forecasts and choosing less crowded times.

What is the Vendée Globe?

The Vendée Globe is a single-handed, non-stop, non-assisted sailing race around the world, taking in the three major capes.

When is the next edition?

The next edition is scheduled for November 2028.

What types of boats are used?

Skippers sail 18-meter monohulls in the IMOCA class, often equipped with foils to enhance performance.

How long does the race last?

The duration varies according to conditions and skipper performance. The current record is 64 days, set by Charlie Dalin in 2025.

Where are the start and finish lines?

The race starts and finishes in Les Sables-d’Olonne, in the Vendée region of France.

How many skippers are taking part?

The number of participants varies with each edition. In 2024-2025, 40 skippers took the start.

What is the distance covered?

Skippers cover around 45,000 kilometers during the Vendée Globe.