Just over two months of waiting before knowing the winner of the 2024 edition of the Vendée Globe. Can the latter do better than Yannick Bestaven did Around the World in 80 Days four years ago? This will depend on his ability to escape all the traps that present themselves to the skippers.
No suspense if we compare the route with that of 2020. It is exactly the same with a theoretical distance of 24,394 miles (45,177 km) to go. The regatta will begin with a descent of the Atlantic between Les Sables-d’Olonne and the Cape of Good Hope. This is the least difficult part of the route with one difficulty: the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).
Called the “Doldrums,” this part of the globe around the equator (between 8°N and 3°N) is very unstable. The winds, the Northern Hemisphere trade winds that come from the northeast and the Southern Hemisphere trade winds that come from the southeast, are variable and make changes very difficult for sailors to anticipate.
Once rounded the tip of South Africa, after about two weeks of racing, the sailors will head east towards the southern tip of the American continent, the famous Cape Horn. This is the longest and most difficult stretch of the route, with an obligatory passage at Cape Leeuwin, off the coast of Perth in Australia.
During this long, almost straight stretch, the competitors will have two oceans on the program (Indian and Pacific) as well as the famous roaring 40° and the howling 50°, very powerful winds (between 15 and 25 knots which cause waves of around ten metres). which lies between the latitudes of 40 and 50 degrees, closest to Antarctica. A continent that skippers will absolutely have to avoid with the risk of hitting icebergs.
The last return phase will then take place off the coast of Brazil (and its stormy depressions) with milder temperatures, a new passage through the depression, the winter depressions of the North Atlantic and the desirable circumvention of the Azores anticyclone.
“Necessarily collision risks”
Of course, the sailors are all prepared to face difficulties and the vast majority are experienced enough to avoid the traps. “What I fear most is the start,” says Charlie Dalin, 2nd in the previous edition. If I could be teleported to the middle of the Bay of Biscay, I would sign right away. »
“I can already imagine the tension in the air,” continues the Norman. Everyone will be excited and a little nervous. If you cross the finish line a little too early you get a penalty and there is necessarily a risk of collision with 40 boats in the water. You have much more to lose than to gain. »
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special segment on the upcoming 2024 Vendée Globe. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with maritime expert Dr. Helen Archer, who has been involved in sailing science and oceanic studies for over two decades. Dr. Archer, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Helen Archer: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss what’s shaping up to be an exhilarating race.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely! We’re just over two months away from the race start. In your opinion, what do you think defines a successful Vendée Globe campaign?
Dr. Helen Archer: A successful campaign hinges on a mix of skill, preparation, and a touch of luck. As you know, navigation through unpredictable weather conditions and ocean currents is crucial. Of course, factors like equipment reliability and mental resilience are also key as skippers face the considerable solitude of the race.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of weather, the route for 2024 is unchanged from 2020, starting with that descent of the Atlantic. How significant is the threat posed by the Intertropical Convergence Zone, or ITCZ, often referred to as the “Doldrums”?
Dr. Helen Archer: The ITCZ is notorious for its unpredictable winds and calms. Sailors can find themselves literally stuck in place for days, which can dramatically affect their race times. Navigating this zone requires not only technical sailing skills but also an intuitive understanding of weather patterns. Sailors must remain agile and ready to pivot their strategies at any moment.
Time.news Editor: That unpredictability certainly adds to the drama of the race! Following that introduction phase, sailors face the daunting passage around the Cape of Good Hope. What do you think is the biggest challenge in that stretch?
Dr. Helen Archer: After the ITCZ, rounding the Cape of Good Hope can be a relief for some, but it brings its own challenges. The transition to the Southern Ocean means coping with much harsher conditions, including fierce winds and towering waves. The long stretch towards Cape Horn is notorious for its treacherous weather and heavy seas. History has shown that this leg can drastically alter the leaderboard.
Time.news Editor: With two oceans to navigate, the Indian and the Pacific, how does that affect a skipper’s strategy?
Dr. Helen Archer: Strategy becomes paramount here. Each ocean behaves differently; for instance, the Southern Ocean is known for its relentless winds and can change dramatically. Skippers need to consider where they position their boats and how they can leverage prevailing currents and wind patterns. Furthermore, route optimization becomes critical—skippers must constantly assess the best path to maintain speed while navigating through unpredictable weather.
Time.news Editor: So much to consider! What are your predictions for how this race might play out compared to Yannick Bestaven’s remarkable victory in 2020?
Dr. Helen Archer: While it’s hard to predict exactly what will happen, Bestaven’s triumph four years ago set a new benchmark. The 2024 race could see even tighter competition, especially with advancements in technology and the lessons learned from previous races. Skippers will likely push the limits of their vessels and strategies—those who can effectively manage to tackle the challenges of the ITCZ and the Southern Ocean will stand a better chance of outpacing the legendary record.
Time.news Editor: Fascinating insights, Dr. Archer. As we await the race, what advice would you give to aspiring sailors who dream of participating in events like the Vendée Globe?
Dr. Helen Archer: I’d say start small and commit to continuous learning. Each sea adventure offers invaluable experience—be it in local sailing competitions or long-distance offshore sailing. Building a strong foundation in navigation, weather prediction, and boat handling is crucial. And, of course, resilience and mental toughness will prepare you for the grueling challenges of a race like the Vendée Globe.
Time.news Editor: Wise words indeed! Dr. Helen Archer, thank you for sharing your expertise and insights. We look forward to the drama and excitement of the Vendée Globe unfold.
Dr. Helen Archer: Thank you! It’s going to be an incredible race, and I can’t wait to see how it all plays out!