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The Vendée Globe 2024, the largest solo round-the-world race, will see twenty-five sailors racing with scientific equipment provided by UNESCO and partners on their IMOCA yachts. This collaboration aims to advance oceanographic research and improve weather forecasting models. The skippers will receive training in using the instruments on October 22 and 23 in Les Sables d’Olonne.
The partnership between UNESCO, Vendée Globe, and the IMOCA Class is innovative, with skippers volunteering to carry weather-marine measuring instruments during the race. This will provide real-time data for scientists to enhance global knowledge of climate and the ocean, particularly in less frequented areas like the Southern Ocean.
Various instruments will be used, including surface buoys, weather stations, autonomous floats, and thermosalinographs. The data collected will contribute to the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) coordinated by UNESCO, with support from institutes like Ifremer, Météo France, and UK MetOffice.
The skippers’ involvement in this scientific initiative aligns with the environmental commitments of the Vendée Globe to UNESCO. Starting from the 2028 edition, carrying scientific equipment will be mandatory for all competitors.
A provisional program includes a presentation of instruments to skippers, media briefings, and public discussions involving Vendée Globe, UNESCO, IMOCA Class, and scientific partners. The project has received praise from Alain Leboeuf, Audrey Azoulay, and Claire VAYER for promoting collaboration between sport and science.
The 25 skippers participating in the deployment of measuring instruments include names like Louis Burton, Boris Herrmann, and Sam Davies. The distribution of instruments will take place on October 22.
Overall, the inclusion of scientific equipment in the Vendée Globe highlights the significance of combining sports and science to protect and understand the ocean better.
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Ava Thompson, a skilled sailor and marine journalist from Auckland, has developed a deep connection to the ocean that guides her work. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Auckland, Ava is known for her engaging and detailed storytelling. Her writing brings to life the thrill of sailing and the unique maritime culture of New Zealand, earning her recognition in the sailing community. Outside of her journalism, Ava enjoys exploring the rugged coastlines of New Zealand and competing in local regattas, always in search of her next seafaring adventure.
