Informationen zum Kurs und Skipperpertraits - Segel.de

LEG 4
LES SABLES- DIEPPE
430 MILES
The fourth leg is the race decider. Unlike the first three, this leg is 100% inshore, the Île
-Île to be left to port, with 180 nautical miles to race to the isle of Ushant,
compulsory to be left to port. The passage will be the decisive moment where the different
options can still change the overall results: passage via the Sein undertow or not, passage
via the Fromveur or closer to shore via the Four channel. Though coastal, the course will be
very open and with plenty of twists and turns as the sailors make way.
The second part of the race from the Brittany point to the Cotentin, 130 nautical miles, will
once again require careful navigation and vigilance. The course is free, the only course mark
at the entrance of the Cotentin.
Prior to this, there may be different options like following a course further offshore at the
Channel Islands could be possible. Nevertheless, Guernsey being on the direct course, it is
very likely there will be two groups: those following the northern course North of the island
and those following the southern course, aiming for the little or great Russel, the inner
channels between the islands.
The last part of the course can be complicated by the raz de Blanchard with its strong
undertow and Barfleur. The Cotentin point may prove problematic with fickle winds. The first
skippers to complete this passage will certainly savour their crossing in the bay of Seine - 90
nautical miles to be covered. The very last miles along the coast approaching the cape of
Antifer will be the last obstacle of the race.
In the event of a light wind, the high cliffs could prove to be a barrier for the sailors as they
make their way to the finish.
9