Behind the scenes of the final day before the Transat Paprec start

Transat Paprec preparations © Vincent Olivaud / OC Sport Pen Duick

The countdown is almost over. Tomorrow, Sunday, April 20, at precisely 13:02, the 19 duos competing in the Transat Paprec will cast off for a high-intensity Atlantic crossing. But before this offshore sprint begins, there's a final day to navigate — one that calls for patience, precision, focus, and a few quiet moments before the storm. Under the spring sun in Concarneau, the final preparations played out today with a mix of calm energy and mounting excitement.

There's a moment in every offshore race when everything becomes "the last": the last briefing, last dinner, last night ashore, last hugs. With nearly 20 days at sea ahead, each routine gesture takes on extra meaning. At 13:02 on Sunday, the sailors' world will narrow to one thing — the race — for nearly three weeks.

"We're counting down the sleeps!"

Excitement was the prevailing mood among the sailors on the eve of the big departure. "I'm feeling relaxed, but mostly I'm just super excited to go. The excitement has replaced the stress," said Victor Le Pape (Région Bretagne - CMB Espoir), flashing a grin. "It's like being a kid again — you count down the sleeps until the big day."

Rest is key before a long crossing, and Victor was glad to be getting solid sleep, despite the mental buzz of the race approaching. "I've been sleeping well — having some experience helps manage the nerves," added Davy Beaudart (Hellowork). His fellow competitor, Jules Ducelier (Région Normandie), is also focused on rest: "I'm trying to get ahead on sleep now, because I know it'll be a different story once we're out there."

A stable weather forecast is helping calm nerves too. "Knowing conditions will be mild at the start helps us relax and sleep better," noted Hugo Dhallenne (Skipper Macif).

"Staying focused, not scattered"

Despite the calm demeanor, the race is never far from the skippers' minds. Many are already adjusting their routines, including practicing short naps to prepare for watch rotations. "We're trying not to scatter ourselves," explained Lola Billy (Région Bretagne CMB - Océane). "We follow a backwards schedule to stay efficient and make space for recovery."

The last major obligation of the day? Weather briefings. The official one was held at 17:00, followed by more targeted sessions, such as those run by the Pôle Finistère offshore training center. These meetings are key moments of focus and mental projection.

Thomas André, who sails with Cindy Brun aboard Cap St Barth, likened the mindset to that of a climber. "It's like when you're climbing and looking for your next hold. You analyze the route. That's what we're doing now — visualizing decisions based on routing data, getting the course to sink into our heads."

No Party Tonight — Just Rest and Family Time

Few skippers were expected to attend Saturday evening's concert at the race village. Most opted for a quieter night. "A good meal and a good night's sleep — that's our plan," said Charlotte Yven. Lola Billy echoed the sentiment: "Some family time and then early to bed."

For sailors who are also parents, the final hours are especially emotional. "I just want to be fully present with my kids," said Cindy Brin, originally from Saint-Barthélemy. "I won't see them for almost three weeks."

Arno Biston (Article.1) summed up the bittersweet moment: "Tonight, we start saying our quiet goodbyes."

Charlie Dalin on the Dockside: A Champion's Perspective

Charlie Dalin, winner of the last Vendée Globe and former Transat Paprec champion (2012, with Gildas Morvan), made a notable appearance at the village this afternoon. After a stint on stage, Dalin took time to sign autographs and connect with fans — and shared his insights on this special race.

"It's a tough race to win," he said. "Even fast duos or those with a strong handle on their boat can't rely on speed alone. Strategic choices make all the difference. Often, it's the outsiders who win — those who dare to break away from the fleet, push a bold option. You have to believe in your strategy. The level is intense, and the margins are tiny."

A compelling reason, he hinted, to follow the race closely day by day.

What to Expect on Race Day

The action begins Sunday morning. From 10:00, skippers will take the stage for a final salute to the public, before boarding their boats and casting off between 10:30 and 11:30. The official race start will sound at 13:02.

The coastal course will lead them through the Bay of Port-La-Forêt, around Cap Coz, past the entrance of the Concarneau channel, toward the Glénan Islands, and finally into the Bay of Biscay.

While the skies may be grey with a chance of light showers, conditions are promising: 12 to 15 knots of wind from the north-northwest, with gusts up to 20-22 knots, according to Météo Consult.

The stage is set. The last moments of calm have been savored. Tomorrow, it's time to race.