Vendée Globe

Built in Tuscany, the Groupe Bel monohull has been launched in the Mediterranean in what was a very emotional moment for her skipper, Kito de Pavant and the whole of the team that has worked on her over the past months.

Groupe Bel clearly stands out with her chine and straight lines stretching out to her bow. Her shaped roof is fitted with two aggressive-looking “eyes” to enable the helmsman to keep watch and set the sails, while sheltering from sea spray. With her bare deck, mast located a long way back, two wheels placed forward, everything was designed with weight savings in mind, ease of handling and the protection of the sailor. Her first sail will take place next week in Italy. The schedule is already planned, as on the third of November she will be setting out from Le Havre on the Transat Jacques Vabre.
Kito de Pavant, the skipper of Groupe Bel : « I can at last smell the sea air! We’ve been waiting for this great moment to arrive. In terms of her design, I’m convinced we’re on the right lines. It would appear that Groupe Bel is much lighter than many of her rivals. Even if there is still an Everest to climb, we have just completed one important stage. We shall soon be heading for Port Camargue, our homeport, before making our way to Le Havre in the company of Sébastien (Col). A 2000-mile journey, which will be a good way of preparing for Groupe Bel’s first race. »

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