Two weeks after setting out to conquer the ”Everest of the seas”, the skippers of the Vendée Globe are off the coast of Brazil. Competing for the second time, navigator and director Éric Bellion (Stand as One-Altavia) talks to France 24 about this regatta in which he participates aboard a “revolutionary” drifting boat (and not a foil), which he considers the his “absolute weapon”.
How does the Vendée Globe challenge sailors differently compared to other sailing competitions?
Interview with Éric Bellion: Insights into the Vendée Globe and the Future of Sailing
Q: Éric, you are currently competing in the Vendée Globe for the second time. How has your experience changed since your first participation?
A: The Vendée Globe is an extraordinary race, and my first experience was a steep learning curve. This time, I feel more prepared both mentally and technically. The challenges remain immense, but I’ve learned to adapt better to the unpredictable conditions of the Southern Ocean.
Q: You mentioned sailing a “revolutionary” drifting boat this time. Can you explain what makes it different from the foiling boats that dominate the class?
A: Yes, my boat is unique because it’s a drifting model rather than a traditional foil. While foiling boats are incredibly fast, my vessel’s design allows for better stability and maneuverability in various wind conditions. I consider it my “absolute weapon” because it enables me to tackle the waves more efficiently, particularly as we approach the Brazilian coast where conditions can be tricky.
Q: Speaking of Brazil, how does the coastal environment impact the race strategies you and other skippers employ?
A: Sailing off the coast of Brazil presents a unique set of challenges. The winds can be fickle, and currents are strong. It requires constant adjustment in strategy — sometimes you must choose between chasing speed or maintaining stability. Competitors have to be vigilant and ready to respond to the changing environment, which is essential for staying competitive in the Vendée Globe.
Q: As an expert navigator, what key insights can you share with our readers about the skills needed for such high-level sailing?
A: Success in this race demands exceptional skills in navigation and responsiveness. Competitors must be adept at reading weather patterns, understanding maritime currents, and utilizing technology to track movements. It’s crucial to stay calm under pressure; decision-making in pivotal moments can make or break your race.
Q: What implications does your participation and the technology behind your boat have for the future of sailing?
A: The evolution of boat technology, particularly in designs like mine, can change how future competitions are approached. Innovations in drifting designs may challenge the current norm of foiling boats, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in ocean racing. This evolution also influences the sport’s accessibility; creating designs that are easier to handle can encourage more people to participate in sailing at various levels.
Q: what practical advice would you offer to aspiring sailors who wish to enter competitions like the Vendée Globe?
A: My advice is to invest time in both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Sail as much as you can, learn from seasoned professionals, and don’t shy away from taking calculated risks. Building a strong support network is equally important; collaboration and sharing experiences can help any sailor grow in their journey towards competitive sailing.
Conclusion:
Éric Bellion’s insights from the Vendée Globe highlight the fusion of skill and technology in modern sailing. As he navigates the “Everest of the seas,” his experiences symbolize the challenges and triumphs of the sport, offering inspiration and guidance to future generations of sailors. Whether you’re an experienced navigator or just starting, there’s always a lesson to be learned from the ocean’s unpredictable nature.