Spindrift Racing update, team take the opportunity to check feasibility of solo operation as they deliver maxi trimaran Spindrift2 back to Trinite-sur-Mer after stopover in Miami

From the following press release on the Spindrift Racing website:

http://www.spindrift-racing.com/2013/11/spindrift-2-back-at-sea/

Ten days after breaking the record for the Discovery Route, and after a stopover in Miami, Spindrift 2 will be back at sea tomorrow for an east to west crossing of the Atlantic, finishing in Trinité-sur-Mer. The time in Miami has allowed the crew to make a complete check of the frame after its express crossing in race mode and to prepare Spindrift 2 for carrying Yann Guichard and his men home. The objective of this voyage is to study in live conditions whether or not this boat, which is meant for a crew of 14, can be sailed solo and so be able to race in the Route du Rhum next year. Also, Spindrift 2 will have a special guest will be on board who did not want to miss this chance for an ocean crossing. Dominique Perret * the world famous freerider, who will share this adventure from a different angle. More accustomed to the icy spray from a different spindrift, he is taking time out and swapping his skis for a pair of boots and will bring a fresh perspective to this other extreme sport.

  ”It has been 10 days since we crossed the finish line and I have recovered well,” Yann said. “This transat will only be finished when I get back Spindrift 2 back to Trinité-sur-Mer. I’m really happy to be going back to sea especially with a specific goal for this crossing; judging the feasibility of handling this giant trimaran alone. For this evaluation, the loads on board have been reduced and I will test some of the manoeuvres alone. We will go with a sail area close to what I could have solo, to test the autopilot, and think about some systems that could ease life on board. We will have different conditions for this transat and it will be crucial for making my decision,” Yann.

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