A site divided between the Var and Brittany
The start of the Vendée Globe is approaching for the only IMOCA based in the Mediterranean. At the end of August 2020, Alexia Barrier has just left the Port of Saint-Mandrier, in the Var, and is heading towards Southern Brittany. This long delivery trip around the Spanish peninsula will enable Alexia to validate the first phase of her shipyard, which took place on the former maritime aviation centre (BAN), which has now been converted into a shipyard by the company IMS Shipyard.
With 600 m of quay and 20,000 m² of hangars on a 77,000 m² plot of land, this structure, the largest in the Mediterranean, is perfectly adapted to the constraints of such a construction site. The technical team was able to dismast and completely overhaul the rigging. All the electronics on board were also removed and replaced by a B&G H5000 control unit. The various electrical and hydraulic circuits were also overhauled.
This 1700-mile delivery trip, carried out with members of her shore crew, will enable Alexia to validate the various work carried out and to continue training in "false solo".
A ship of legend
Initially built for Catherine Chabaud in 1998, 4myplanet will be taking the start of her 5th Vendée Globe, making her the most successful boat in the current IMOCA fleet. This will be her last participation, as IMOCA boats built before 2007 will not be able to take part in future editions of the Vendée Globe.
Equipped with a pendulum keel and straight daggerboards, this simple and reliable boat knows the route perfectly.
A new partner
The second phase of the project will take place at the Mer Agitée shipyard in Port-la-Forêt. Under the leadership of the team led by Michel Desjoyeaux, the keel will be changed in order to meet the requirements of the IMOCA rules. A new set of sails will be installed and the new livery of the boat will be applied to highlight a new sponsor, which will be unveiled at the beginning of September.
Alexia is still looking for a second title partner, in order to equip 4myplanet with new headsails and a hard cap to protect the cockpit.
