The 13th edition of the Route du Rhum will set sail from Saint-Malo this Sunday, November 1, 2026, perpetuating a legendary maritime tradition.
The 13th edition of the Route du Rhum is poised to write a new chapter in its storied history. This Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 1:02 PM, 115 solo sailors will leave the port of Saint-Malo to reach Guadeloupe, following in the footsteps of the great names who have marked this competition since its inception.
For fifteen days, festivities unfolded at the foot of the ramparts of the corsair city. The sailors were able to enjoy this unique atmosphere, made of reunions and intensive preparations. This communion between the city and the competitors constitutes one of the major characteristics of the event.
The names of Mike Birch, Florence Arthaud, and Laurent Bourgnon resonate as absolute references in the history of the Route du Rhum. These navigators helped forge the legend of a race that attracts the best sailors from around the world. Their exploits remain etched in the memory of sailing enthusiasts.
Technological evolution has considerably modified performances. Current boats allow for crossings that are much faster than their predecessors. The shortening of the Atlantic, an expression often used to describe this acceleration, perfectly illustrates the progress made both in terms of materials and navigation techniques.
This 2026 edition promises once again strong moments, between strategy, endurance, and passion. The solo sailors are now setting sail, confident, towards the Atlantic Ocean and their individual destinies.
For fifteen days, festivities unfolded at the foot of the ramparts of the corsair city. The sailors were able to enjoy this unique atmosphere, made of reunions and intensive preparations. This communion between the city and the competitors constitutes one of the major characteristics of the event.
The names of Mike Birch, Florence Arthaud, and Laurent Bourgnon resonate as absolute references in the history of the Route du Rhum. These navigators helped forge the legend of a race that attracts the best sailors from around the world. Their exploits remain etched in the memory of sailing enthusiasts.
Technological evolution has considerably modified performances. Current boats allow for crossings that are much faster than their predecessors. The shortening of the Atlantic, an expression often used to describe this acceleration, perfectly illustrates the progress made both in terms of materials and navigation techniques.
This 2026 edition promises once again strong moments, between strategy, endurance, and passion. The solo sailors are now setting sail, confident, towards the Atlantic Ocean and their individual destinies.
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Source: Ouest-France