For this challenge, Norbert started the construction of a prototype specifically designed and built for this adventure. The Open60AAL, built from 100% recyclable volcanic rock fiber, was designed by the architect Vincent Le Bailly and designed at the Innovation Yachts shipyard, based in Les Sables-d'Olonne. Indeed, it was not possible to sail an IMOCA, particularly at the poles, where the shock resistance would not have been adequate. Moreover, this 60-foot boat has a double hull (NDRL: one hull inside the hull) in case it would touch ice cubes, in order to guarantee the watertightness of the boat. "The hull has been designed to withstand small shocks, it will be resistant to small ice cubes, but it is not an icebreaker. It's not something we could have done with an IMOCA." explains Marion, a member of the Ant-Arctic Lab team, who worked on the construction and design of the boat.
"We chose to build a 60-foot boat in volcanic fibre to show the quality of the material in the boating world. It's a raw material that has been around for about ten years, but which has revolutionised construction a little in recent years. Volcanic rock is shock resistant, hard, and has good mechanical properties for building a boat, without forgetting the ecological dimension" explains Marion.
Prior to the launch of the 60-foot boat, Norbert and his son had already launched the Fipofix - a 16-foot (4.90 m) proto that validated the use of this construction material in boating. "Norbert's son made two Atlantic crossings with his boat and all went well. We then decided to build a 60-footer and tackle a class known on a large scale. The objective is to show that volcanic rock is a good material for boat building. We want to show that it's reliable and safe." adds Marion.
After two years of construction at the Innovation Yachts shipyard, the racing boat, made from 100% recyclable and sustainable materials (volcanic rock fibre, balsa wood core and biocompatible epoxy resin) was launched on 16 May 2018.
This showcase boat will serve to demonstrate the know-how of this new shipyard, created specifically for the construction of the Open60AAL, as Marion explains " The goal of Innovation Yachts is to build custom boats - racing or pleasure - for clients with this material. We're looking to create boats that are more environmentally friendly, simpler and non-polluting."
However, it is not said that IMOCA boats made of volcanic rock will be launched soon "In terms of the gauge, the material is not a problem, but it is a little heavier than carbon. But the skippers have a performance objective above all else."
A criterion that is not a priority for Norbert, who wishes above all to reach the end of his challenge by completing his round-the-world trip. "The objective is multiple. First of all to show the reliability and durability of the material, then to go fast, but above all to complete the navigation. Finally, to show the fragility of our environment. At the time, it wasn't possible to cross the Northwest Passage, whereas today it is. Things are changing and our planet is fragile."
The next few days will be devoted to making the boat more reliable. The Open60AAL will be mast stepped in 15 days and then it will be time for the first sea trials. "We'll first sail to Les Sables-d'Olonne before considering the Bay of Biscay and probably a round trip to the Azores", concludes Marion.
