Through this maritime adventure full of twists and turns, the crew of Anatole and Alice aboard the Class40 L’Envol – Kermarrec Promotion, demonstrate their unfailing determination, symbolising the commitment and resilience at the heart of nautical competition.
Programme Change: Focus on the Unexpected
The Transat Jacques Vabre 2023 is shaping up to be an unexpected one for the Class40 L’Envol – Kermarrec Promotion. Anatole and Alice start the race with a big surprise: a change of course announced by the Race Direction. The violent winds forecast along the Spanish coast have led the Class40 fleet, which includes Kermarrec Promotion, to make a stopover in Lorient to await milder conditions.
Preparing to leave: a challenge and a strategy
After crossing the start line at 13:41, the Class40 L’Envol – Kermarrec Promotion is heading for an unexpected stopover. Anatole emphasises the importance of these first 48 hours of racing, which will allow the boat to be tested before the Atlantic crossing.
A Devastating Night
However, the first night did not go smoothly. The boat is making slow progress, encountering particularly violent conditions as it passes the Raz Blanchard. Anatole and Alice are facing technical problems, but despite everything, their spirits remain high. They decided to stop off in Lorient for some necessary repairs before the second departure.
New Departure: Towards Martinique
After this life-saving stopover, Anatole and Alice are back at the start of the Transat Jacques Vabre in Lorient for the second leg to Martinique. Despite a slight delay at the start, the duo of skippers are motivated and ready to take on the technical and meteorological challenges that lie ahead.
A shortened route
The slightly modified route includes a stopover in Porto Santo before heading for Martinique. Anatole emphasises the importance of the tactical choices ahead, with East and West options to consider at the Spanish tip.
Daily report – Week 1: Between Challenges and Victories
The first week at sea is full of challenges, from delayed departures to repairs en route. Anatole and Alice share the highs and lows of their adventure, from difficult weather conditions to repairs and technical navigation.
Daily report – Week 2: Slow progress towards Martinique
The second week saw the crew face changing conditions. Between the frustration of losing their connection, complex sail choices and moments of doubt, Anatole and Alice are staying the course. The joy of reaching milestones, such as the remaining 1000 miles, is underlined by light-hearted anecdotes and moments of relaxation on board.
Towards the End of the Adventure: The Last Days at Sea
The final days of the Transat Jacques Vabre are drawing to a close as the wind returns and we approach Martinique. Sail adjustments and vigilance are required to arrive as early as possible. Anatole and Alice would like to express their gratitude for the support they have received throughout this extraordinary adventure.
Conclusion: The KeriMedical epic across the Atlantic
KeriMedical, the team’s partner, is celebrating the daring and determination of the crew in this Transat Jacques Vabre, which has been full of twists and turns. This adventure, a blend of technical challenges and moments of grace, is a testament to the crew’s resilience in the face of the elements. Martinique looms on the horizon, marking the end of an unforgettable maritime epic. KeriMedical salutes Anatole and Alice for their courage and tenacity throughout this exceptional journey.