Since rounding the iconic Cape Horn, a symbol of the harshness of the Southern Ocean, just one week ago, Giancarlo Pedote has been focusing on the challenges of the South Atlantic and, in particular, those associated with the cold front off Cape Frio. This transition heralds a new phase in his journey around the world, where milder conditions and a gradual return to civilisation are a stark contrast to the rigours of the Deep South. A crucial passage both strategically and psychologically, it epitomises the Vendée Globe narrative: adapting to changing environments whilst sailing astutely in response to the vagaries of the weather. Within this context, the skipper of Prysmian is continuing to demonstrate both resilience and opportunism, whilst taking the time to pay tribute to his rivals Charlie Dalin and Yoann Richomme, as they launch into their final sprint for home in their own circumnavigation of the globe.
The Cape Horn passage is a veritable milestone for any sailor taking on this adventure and, in more ways than one, it marked a turning point in the race for Giancarlo Pedote. “The first few miles after rounding Cape Horn were a great relief. We were leaving an austere where the cold and grey took centre stage and we were heading into a sunny environment where the air is milder and much less humid,” he admits. After weeks of being subjected to the icy waters and violent winds of the Deep South, rediscovering the milder latitudes of the Atlantic has come as such a relief. “It’s an important step psychologically. Rediscovering the Atlantic feels like you’re back on home waters and gives you added pep and a moral boost at the same time,” explains the Italian sailor. In addition to the improvement in the weather conditions, you also notice the physical changes. “Rediscovering temperatures in excess of 20°C comes as a relief after the past month spent in the icy cold of the Deep South, which is a region where you sail with the doors closed in low-light conditions, which becomes trying over a long period of time. The return to milder conditions and the fact that you are closer to civilisation is just fantastic,” he gushes.

The challenges of the cold front off Cape Frio

The transition to the South Atlantic comes with its own share of obstacles, however. The cold front off Cape Frio, a key passage in the journey into the northern hemisphere, is a hefty strategic challenge. “It is virtually stationary and, as you try to traverse it, the wind is inexistant. For several days, my attention has been drawn to a line of storms. It may be punctuated by gusts and lightning, which are a potential risk to the electronics,” explains the skipper. To successfully negotiate this complex zone, the Florentine is relying on his expertise and his ability to adapt. “Choosing the right moment to cross the zone at right angles, at 90°, is essential if we are to make a swift transition into the stable air of the Saint Helena High and carve out a gull-wing-shaped trajectory in our climb northwards,” he explains, whilst also alluding to the inherent uncertainty of this type of passage.
 
Strategy and improvisation, keys to success
 
In an area where conditions are changing quickly, strategy remains a tricky exercise. “I’ve thought long and hard about which strategy to adopt but it’s still a complex exercise given that conditions are changing day in day out. Any attempt to make a precise plan is futile, which means you’re constantly having to improvise and adapt and you have to be ready to snatch every possible opportunity that comes your way,” admits Giancarlo. This lack of visibility requires deft management of the elements and reinforces the importance of staying focused. “When your speed is limited, you are more subject to external factors. You end up stuck in the same position with little room for manoeuvre to make good your escape,” he adds, highlighting the need to plan ahead whenever possible.

A tribute to the front runners

Despite the challenges encountered, the skipper of Prysmian remains in awe of the performance posted by his rivals and is quick to pay tribute to Charlie Dalin and Yoann Richomme as they launch into their sprint for the finish in this Vendée Globe: “They’ve sailed a remarkable race where everything has come together in their favour. Their performance has been really impressive and they’ve clearly demonstrated that they’re a cut above the rest. Well played guys!” Amidst a sense of personal satisfaction and a string of strategic challenges, Giancarlo Pedote is continuing to make headway in this extraordinary adventure, buoyed up by his resilience and his love of the sea. Every mile ticked off is bringing him another step closer to the finish line and a much-deserved spot among the heroes of this latest edition of the Vendée Globe.