Special edition support
Zodiac has been chosen as the official partner of the 2024 Vendée Globe. Considered the Everest of the seas, it's scheduled to start on 10 November 2024.
Photography by Zodiac Nautic
15 November 2023
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In one of the most challenging, round the world sailing races, 40 solo skippers will sail their IMOCA yachts non-stop and without assistance in the wake of the Golden Globe, which in 1968 initiated the first circumnavigation of this type via the three capes – Good Hope, Leeuwin and Horn.
The Vendée Globe 10th anniversary edition will involve the 40 contenders being escorted by a safety fleet of 42 Zodiac RIBs as they navigate the seas of the globe.
A pioneer in RIBs with 125 years of experience, Zodiac has been providing the RIB fleets of sailing event organisers for many years.
True ocean adventurers, Zodiac RIBs have the reputation of being extremely resistant and reliable, thanks to materials and manufacturing processes that are always at the cutting edge of technology.
A very low centre of gravity, a deep-V hull and very seaworthy floats give these boats exceptional speed and crossing capacity in rough seas, and are essential features to ensure the best possible safety on the water at the start of the next Vendée Globe.
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This security system will also be available to the organisers to welcome the winner of this 10th edition and all the other competitors to the finish line and as they make their way up the legendary channel in Les Sables d’Olonne.
“We’re delighted and proud to return to the Vendée Globe, aware of the history we have with this wonderful race,” said François Fauroux, CEO of Zodiac Nautic.
“This return signals our desire to build a strong, long-term partnership with this major race. The values held by the participants are aligned with those we share with our teams: audacity, agility, commitment.
“This co-operation allows us both to strongly unite internally, but also to prove in situ the performance of our rigid inflatable boats. As a leader and reference in RIBS throughout the world, we are also very happy to be able to share this moment with all our international partners.
“Our daily mission of allowing everyone to experience unforgettable adventures on the water, which has driven us for 90 years, cannot be better expressed than through the Vendée Globe.”
As part of their official partnership agreement, Zodiac will produce 42 limited-edition, custom-built RIBs in the colours of the legendary round the world race. These unique Zodiac boats will then be available for sale.
Zodiac is represented by 1,600 dealers worldwide and has sold more than 1 million boats. In Australia, Zodiac boats are represented by Sirocco Marine.
Anticipating a busy summer season, Sirocco Marine dealers nationally are stocked with an extensive selection of Zodiac RIBS, spanning the Medline, Open, Pro and Yachtline ranges, from 4 metres to the 9-metre models.
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