Setting Sail for History: The 15th Transat CIC Embarks from Lorient to New York in 2024

The 15th edition of The Transat CIC is set to begin from Lorient, Morbihan, on April 28, 2024. This legendary transatlantic race, established in 1960, challenges solo sailors to navigate primarily against prevailing winds and currents, spanning a rigorous 3500-mile course between Europe and North America, culminating in New York—marking its third time as the finish line following the 1960 and 2016 races.

A Return to the Origins

After an eight-year hiatus, The Transat CIC returns with a route reminiscent of its original path, with New York once again serving as the destination. This unmarked course promises to test the sailors’ skills and endurance, offering no reprieve as they face successive weather systems across the northern Atlantic.

The Challenges of a Northern Route

Francis Le Goff, the Race Director of The Transat CIC, notes the unique difficulties of this northern route. “The Transat CIC, open on the Atlantic, is the most complicated solo transatlantic race because, in late April to early May, there can be a succession of low-pressure systems in the North Atlantic generating headwinds,” says Le Goff. Unlike other transatlantic races that move from east to west, such as the Route du Rhum, the second part of The Transat does not benefit from tailwinds. “Sailors will not be descending to chase the Trade Winds. The Transat CIC does not head towards the sun,” he added, highlighting the potential for fog, rain, and wind.

A Sprint Across the Atlantic

Open to IMOCA, Class40, and Vintage sailboats, the race is expected to be a rapid sprint for the leading boats. The first IMOCA yachts are predicted to complete the course in about eight to ten days, with the Class40s taking approximately five days longer. The grand finish will be at New York’s One15 Marina in Brooklyn, with the boats passing close to the Statue of Liberty against the iconic backdrop of the New York skyline. The race officially concludes on May 20, 2024, at 11:02 UTC for both IMOCA and Class40 categories.

Environmental Considerations: Cetacean Protection Zones

For the first time in a transatlantic race, Cetacean Protection Zones (CPZs) will be implemented, an initiative started during the last round-the-world ULTIM race. These zones are designed to minimize the risk of collisions between racing vessels and marine megafauna. Defined by the French scientific consortium Share the Ocean, in consultation with the Race Direction and OC Sport Pen Duick, these zones aim to enhance the safety of both mariners and their vessels through criteria based on scientific research, statistical modeling, and reported collisions.

The Transat CIC continues to blend competitive spirit with a commitment to marine conservation, ensuring that this race remains not only a test of sailing prowess but also a leader in environmentally conscious sporting practices.