The Maxi Banque Populaire IX was launched on October 30, 2017 in Lorient. Armel le Cléac'h's new trimaran is part of the latest generation of Ultimates capable of flying at high speed. All of them will in fact be taking part in a solo round the world voyage in 2019. After an expected launch, the Banque Populaire team was able to carry out a first navigation on November 3, 2017. It was also an opportunity to get this giant of the seas to fly.
It was in ideal conditions that the crew set out to sea to discover this new boat and check out many details. Among which the validation of the sail system, foils, winches while sailing. But above all, the team wanted to push the boat a little bit, just to see what she has in her belly. As a result, the Maxi Banque Populaire IX flew at over 35 knots. A satisfying first experience, which delighted the crew.
For information, this maxi trimaran equipped with foils will be able to reach a maximum speed of 50 knots, i.e. approximately more than 90 km/h. Its average speed will be around 35 knots. After a period of discovery and adjustments, Armel le Cléac'h will embark on a record attempt on the Route de la Découverte in January or February 2018, before taking part in his first major race, Nice Ultimed.
The Discovery Route is a 4,481 mile (8,300 km) route between Cadiz (Spain) and San Salvador (Bahamas) and is owned by Yann Guichard since November 6, 2013 by Spindrift 2 6 days, 14 hours, 29 minutes and 21 seconds. Nice Ultimed is a new race reserved for large multihulls in ocean racing, which will be held in Nice.
