top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

French sailor departs on solo world record attempt

The international sailor from Charentes, François Gabart, has this weekend set off on a solo circumnavigation of the world, which he hopes will take him under 49 days and 3 hours.

You can follow his journey in real-time through this interactive map.

The sailor - who was the 2012-13 winner of the Vendée Globe round-the-world race (and its youngest-ever winner, then age 29) - crossed his latest departure line in Brest at 9h05 GMT (10h05 in France) yesterday, in his ship, named Macif, reported local news source France Info.

He will attempt to break the record created by another French sailor, Thomas Coville, on 25 December 2016, who did the journey in 49 days, 3 hours, 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

This in itself was significantly quicker than the previous record-holder, Francis Joyon, who managed 57 days and 13 hours in 2008.

“Looking at Colville’s time, it’s unlikely that I will beat it,” said Gabart to the Agence France-Presse before his departure. “But there is a chance, and I’m pinning my hopes on that. I will do everything I can to beat it.”

Stay informed:
Sign up to our free weekly e-newsletter
Subscribe to access all our online articles and receive our printed monthly newspaper The Connexion at your home. News analysis, features and practical help for English-speakers in France

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France