The secrets of the mastheads on the IMOCA boats in the Vendée Globe: focus on LCJ Capteurs

The masthead for Charal 2 and Team Works

In the Vendée Globe 2024, 11 IMOCA boats will be using LCJ Capteurs anemometers, renowned for their design with no moving parts. This innovative choice illustrates skippers' demands for reliable, high-performance equipment, even under the most extreme conditions.

François-Xavier Ricardou Published on

Technology at the service of performance

The IMOCA boats taking part in the Vendée Globe 2024-2025 are relying on state-of-the-art equipment to tackle the world's seas. Among them, 11 yachts have opted for the LCJ Capteurs anemometer, a key tool for optimizing sailing performance. Its main advantage? The absence of moving mechanical parts, reducing wear and tear and the risk of malfunction at sea.

Reliability and precision in extreme conditions

Unlike traditional anemometers equipped with propellers or cups, the LCJ Capteurs model uses ultrasonic sensors to measure wind speed and direction. This system guarantees consistent accuracy even in heavy turbulence or freezing conditions, two factors frequently encountered in offshore racing.

Le capteur à ultrason
The ultrasonic sensor

Why do skippers choose LCJ Capteurs?

The advantages of such equipment are numerous. The main one is its reliability. Its hermetic, compact design limits the intrusion of salt, sand or water. Despite their position at the top of the mast, waves can damage the buckets. What's more, this sensor is lighter than traditional models. The minimal maintenance required means less work for the skipper. These features appeal to sailors, including IMOCA racers such as Charal (2 sensors at masthead and 2 at deck level) or Maître CoQ V have integrated this equipment to maximize their competitiveness.

The importance of an optimized masthead

Installed at the masthead, or on poles at the stern of the yacht, ultrasonic anemometers also help to reduce drag and improve the dynamics of the entire rig. Photos of Teamwork or Charal testify to this meticulous integration, where every detail counts to optimize speed.

Le capteur (entouré en rouge) à l'arrière de Charal II
The sensor (circled in red) on the back of Charal II

Avoid risky masthead operations

In single-handed races such as the Vendée Globe, climbing the mast to replace an anemometer represents a major risk for the skipper. In the open sea, the boat's instability makes the operation dangerous, with the risk of a fall or injury, without any possible assistance. By using an anemometer with no moving parts, LCJ Capteurs considerably reduces the need for intervention at the masthead, improving safety for sailors. This mechanical reliability contributes to limiting critical maneuvers in sometimes extreme conditions.

They trust LCJ Capteurs

List of the 11 boats equipped with LCJ Capteurs at the start of the Vendée Globe 2024 :

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