156 km of pure glide, without sail or motor
Setting sail from Martigues in the Bouches-du-Rhône region, Erwan Jauffroy headed for the Var, gliding along in continuous flight on a foil, carried solely by the energy of the swell. No wind support, no mechanical propulsion. Just a board, a foil, and the complex interplay of Mediterranean waves.
The line followed runs along the coast for over 150 kilometers. For over six hours, at an average speed of between 20 and 25 km/h, he maintained flight without falling off. The entire route was completed without physical assistance, in complete autonomy, on a capricious sea.
A performance balanced on the crest of the waves
The foil used by Erwan is based on a dynamic gliding principle: it captures the energy of swells to keep the board out of the water. Every movement, every weight transfer, every micro-adjustment becomes essential to maintain lift and trajectory.
This type of navigation demands intense concentration. For 6 hours 35 minutes, Erwan remained on his feet, in an unstable balance, adapting his trajectory to the water. The slightest imbalance could lead to a fall and break the dynamics of the flight.
Rigorous preparation for a controlled flight
Behind this crossing lies methodical preparation. Erwan Jauffroy studied the coastal relief, anticipated site effects, analyzed weather forecasts and swell angles. His objective was clear: to make the most of the waves without breaking the flight.
Such an effort cannot be improvised: muscular endurance, sheathing, the ability to read the behavior of the water in real time... every parameter was worked on beforehand. Risk anticipation, feeding strategy and safety were also integrated into the project.
Another way of imagining light sailing
Beyond the individual feat, this challenge opens up new perspectives. By demonstrating that it is possible to cover more than 150 kilometers without on-board energy, Erwan Jauffroy is part of an efficient gliding logic, where body and technique replace motors.
This approach is in line with the research and development work carried out by players such as SEAir, who are experimenting with sober forms of maritime travel. The idea that we can travel far, fast and cleanly on the sea, relying solely on natural forces, takes shape here.
A vision driven by boldness
"I dedicate this record to all those who believe that our limits are only those we set for ourselves", declares Erwan Jauffroy at the end of his crossing. The audacity of the project, the mastery of the support, the mental and physical endurance all come together in a spectacular demonstration.
His feat is not just about sporting performance, but about a vision: that of a lighter form of boating, free from traditional energy dependencies, in close interaction with the elements.
Erwan Jauffroy's 156.5 kilometers of foiling without sail or motor have opened up a new frontier. A continuous, sustainable and strategic glide, which could well foreshadow a new field of exploration for nautical practices. And an invitation to dream bigger, with less.
