At precisely 1:02 PM this Sunday, the much-anticipated start of the Vendée Globe was signaled. A fleet of 37 skippers embarked on this legendary solo, non-stop, and unassisted around-the-world race, covering over 24,000 nautical miles (approximately 45,000 km).

The competitors set off in light, unpredictable winds ranging between 4 and 7 knots, beginning their journey at a gentle pace. This calm start stood in stark contrast to the emotional intensity of the morning: starting as early as 8 AM, the sailors cast off their lines after heartfelt farewells on the docks. As they navigated down the iconic Les Sables-d'Olonne channel, they were cheered on by hundreds of thousands of spectators lining the waterfront, eager to send them off.

Just minutes before the official start, the last support crew members leapt into the water, leaving the skippers to face the vastness of the oceans alone. With the wind forecasted to pick up slightly by the end of the day, the sailors are gearing up for their first night at sea, marking the beginning of a multi-week adventure across the world's oceans.

DOCK OUT



DÉPART EN MER