The high-speed, light Ocean Fifty multihulls are set to deliver a unique experience during the Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe, showcasing concentrated, high-octane sport that demands continuous commitment. The 15-meter speedsters can reach blistering speeds, often approaching 40 knots. Racing them requires skill, precision, and mental fortitude to manage these demanding machines.
Constant attention is crucial, particularly given the often changeable conditions during the Route du Rhum, which frequently sees autumn depressions cross the course. Skippers must be acutely aware of the risks to avoid capsizing, a challenge they are well aware of.
This environment fosters an atmosphere of risk management, contributing to the unique character of a class where competition levels are exceptionally high. Luke Berry (Le Rire Médecin Lamotte) notes, “On board, we quickly reach speeds of around 30 knots but we are in control. When it is great these boats really bring the emotions to the surface. I call them smile machines!”
All eleven Ocean Fifty boats will take to the starting line in Saint-Malo on November 1st. Most boats were designed by naval architecture firms Romaric Neyhousser and VPLP. To limit the class’s carbon footprint and ensure fair competition, new Ocean Fifty boats are currently not permitted to be built. This regulation has strengthened the class over the years, requiring participants to own existing boats. Sodebo, holder of the Jules Verne Trophy since January, acquired a 2009-built boat for its young skipper, Léonard Legrand.
This strategy promotes fleet homogenisation and heightens suspense. In last year’s Transat Café L’Or, the top three finishers were all aboard older generation boats: Viabilis Océans (2017), Wewise (2018), and Le Rire Médecin Lamotte (2009).
This year’s Grand Prix races have seen no clear hierarchy, with five different winners in the first two rounds and only four points separating first (Elvest, 24 points) from third (Edenred, 20 points). Baptiste Hulin (Viabilis Océans) remarked on the impressive strength of the fleet, highlighting the desire among competitors to reach the podium.
The Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe marks the culmination of a four-year cycle, remaining the most prestigious event of the Ocean Fifty series. The season is divided into two phases: crewed Grand Prix races that allow for performance fine-tuning and a solo sailing phase. The skippers recently participated in the Dhream Cup to secure qualification for the Route du Rhum.
As they prepare for the race, the skippers continue to refine settings and strategies, ensuring that nothing is left to chance before the grand departure. The competition promises to be thrilling from start to finish, with the Ocean Fifty boats set to deliver spectacular performances.
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