Clarisse Crémer's Triumphant Sea Voyage: An 11th Place Finish in Vendée Globe 2024

The waves of the prestigious Vendée Globe 2024 were determinedly quelled under the resilient bow of L’Occitane en Provence, an IMOCA that harboured an equally tenacious spirit, Clarisse Crémer. After 77 gruelling days of relentless sailing, she crossed the finish line, earning an impressive 11th position.

Her victory is striking given the limited preparation time, ridden with various challenges that could have easily unnerved even seasoned sailors. But the indomitable Crémer showcased her talent, grit, and years of experience in ocean racing, culminating in an incredibly strong performance.

Bad weather off the Vendée coast interfered with her arrival plans, forcing her to seek shelter and meet her technical team in La Rochelle. Once the storm subsided, Crémer’s sailing prowess truly shone as she maintained high velocities in her sleek vessel, rivalling Charlie Dalin, the runner-up of the previous Vendée Globe.

True to the spirit of the race, Crémer faced and overcame several technical challenges during the competition, from a broken gennaker to a foil cylinder failure and mainsail hook problem. Despite facing adversities head-on, she emerged stronger, more self-assured, and full of resolve.

The emotional tides of racing added another layer to her journey, from celebrating her daughter’s birthday remotely to rounding the Cape Horn on New Year’s Day, which offered fleeting respite after battling rough southern conditions.

This race was yet another affirming chapter in Crémer’s life, a woman who found her calling in ocean racing rather late, leaving behind a promising business career. A 2nd place finish in the MiniTransat in 2017 hinted to her potential. With her 11th position in the Vendée Globe 2024, Crémer established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of sailing.