Departure from Greenland’s fjords
From the moment we left the fjords, the Atlantic put us to the test. Swell and wind came without pause, and the depressions sometimes seemed to play with us. To avoid the worst, we traced surprising zigzags on the chart, following the expert guidance of our weather router, Max. These circles on the screen create a strange pattern… one that will make us smile once we’re warm and safe in Lorient.
Life on board
Daily life is not easy: a steering failure required a quick repair, and the desalination system broke down, limiting showers and laundry. Watches are longer, fatigue sets in, and encounters between crew members are sometimes reduced to brief crossings in the narrow passageways.
Yet, despite everything, morale remains high. Between flying egg cartons and bowls in the kitchen and the shared laughter, everyone does their best to keep spirits up. Even in tough conditions, we know it won’t last forever.
Small joys and celebrations
Even at sea, there are moments to celebrate: Wawan’s birthday was marked with After Eight chocolates, Toffifee, and a small improvised target game on the bridge. And, of course, meals remain an essential moment, even while juggling with the boat’s rolling and the swell.
Heading to Lorient
After these demanding days, we are beginning to see the light at the end of the transatlantic. If all goes well, FOREL will arrive in Lorient at the Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly on September 22. Perhaps one last depression to cross before reaching Brittany… otherwise, it would be too easy.
Text & photos: Julien Girardot
