The stormy skies, strong winds and big waves were not the kind of welcome home Vendéen solo racer Benjamin Dutreux would have preferred, but the determined skipper of GUYOT environnement – ​​Water Family crossed the finish line of his second Vendée Globe this Sunday afternoon at 1541 hrs UTC to take a fantastic 10th place.

It is an impressive result for a sailor who sailed fast and smart and made some bold strategic choices which allowed him to break into the Top 10 with an older, 2015 generation boat. Faced with difficult weather conditions Dutreux chose to head to the nearby port of La Rochelle, where the sea conditions are more favourable, seeking to ensure his safety and that of his boat. Once the situation has eased, he will return to Les Sables d’Olone, where a warm welcome will await him,reflecting the local pride he inspires. His elapsed time is 77d 03h 39min and he finished 1d 01h 37min after Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE).

Source : Vendée Globe