Next November, you'll be setting off again to conquer the Jules Verne Trophy Record. What improvements have you made to the boat?
Our improvements are mainly focused on the appendages, weight optimization and a multitude of small details, which on a boat of this size can quickly make the difference.
We have been working on new endings on the foils (fins that now point upwards) that will relieve some of the strain on the bow. We have also installed T-shaped rudders positioned further aft. This combined action significantly reduces the overall drag of the floats and therefore offers a gain in speed at certain points of sail.
We have also installed a new mainsail for performance and lightness.
Are you leaving with the same crew?
We're going to reduce our numbers to below 14. The crew will be essentially the same core group as on the first attempt. We know each other well and have been sailing together for a long time. With this team, I feel confident that we can make the most of our experience Spindrift 2 and go get that record.
How do you prepare on board Spindrift 2?
Our preparation is balanced between technique, training, physical and mental preparation as well as work on the weather. Nothing is left to chance.
Each training or exit of Spindrift 2 requires a relatively important logistics. So the day trips are mainly dedicated to the technique, while for the sports trainings we leave for sessions of two days minimum each time. This summer we sailed offshore, notably around the British Isles and made several return trips in the Bay of Biscay. We have just crossed the 100,000 mile mark for Spindrift 2 since its acquisition in 2013!
Do you think it's possible to go under 40 days? How long do you think it will take you to go around the world?
When the record was 45 days, it was said that it could be improved by a maximum of 2/3 days. Now Francis Joyon has taken a giant step forward with 40 days, 23 hours. That's 5 days less! Can the 40-day barrier be broken? I can't say for sure, but in any case, it's not what we're looking for. The important thing for the Spindrift Racing team is to beat the record, whether it's by a few hours or a few minutes. Taking just under 41 days remains a difficult goal to achieve. Even if the boat and our team have the potential, having good weather and good sequences will be essential to the success of this challenge.
What do you think of the gauge of the Ultim Collective which forbids you to take part in the Ultim solo round-the-world race in 2017?
We have no problem with the Ultim collective as long as they create their own races. It's even great to see new super innovative boats coming into competitive sailing. On the other hand, I don't think it's right to forbid us to enter existing major races.
Will you take part in the Route du Rhum in 2018?
For now, we are focusing on the challenge of the Jules Verne Trophy that takes up all our time and energy. We have not yet announced the 2018 sports programme, which is still under consideration and which will also depend on this winter's result.
