With each passing edition, the start and finish of the Vendée Globe has become a major headache for the organisers. They have to protect the fleet of competitors, the passenger launches attending the start, and the increasing numbers of amateur sailors out on the water from any risk of collision. That is why special arrangements have to be put in place.

To achieve this, they needed to develop strong partnerships. That is why the SAEM Vendée chose to renew the partnership established in 2016 with Highfield (manufacturer of RIBs) and Honda Marine (engine maker).

A fleet of 46 RIBs (measuring 6.60m, 7.60m and 8.60m) fitted with 48 Honda engines with a power ranging from 150 to 250 HP will be made available to the organisers. Their task will be to ensure that safety corridors, which are out of bounds for boats other than those of the competitors, are respected. They will accompany the fleet after the start to avoid the risk of collision with passenger craft and amateur yachtsmen, help the boats make their way out of the harbour entrance channel in Les Sables d’Olonne and form a safety cordon when the solo skippers finish.  All of these tasks require a strong and reliable fleet.

Quotes:

Yves Auvinet, president of the Vendée Globe:

“We are delighted to welcome Highfield once again after a fantastic 2016 Vendée Globe. I am pleased to see Honda Marine, the loyal engine maker for this leader in RIBs also become part of the adventure as a technical supplier. This partnership ensures that the Vendée Globe will benefit from reliable and efficient boats to ensure the safety of the event at sea.”

Yves Brintet, Head of Highfield France:

“The Vendée Globe is the ideal way for Highfield to be in contact with the nautical sector. To develop our brand image of course, but also to show the qualities of our boats: they are reliable, perform well and cut through the sea smoothly. This means they will be able to ensure the safety of the Vendée Globe competitors and spectators at the start and finish. This positions us increasingly as the partner that is a must for amateur sailors and those who work in the maritime sector.”
 

Maxence Zaccharie, Head of Marketing at Honda Marine:

“Being a technical supplier for the Vendée Globe is a logical step forward for us in terms of sportiness. Bringing together our famous 4-stroke engines and the Highfield RIBs will enable us to accompany the competitors and ensure their safety at the start and finish of this unique event.”

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