Austrian skipper attempts an Extreme Sailing World's First
by Innovation Yachts 7 Aug 2023 12:48 BST
6 August 2023
Norbert says good bye from the crowd with „Never give up!“ T-Shirt © Innovation Yachts / Marion Koch
Norbert Sedlacek, renowned skipper in Les Sables d'Olonne and founder of Innovation Yachts, is embarking on a historic journey today from les Sables d'Olonne as part of his ANT ARCTIC LAB project.
He crossed the starting line at 11h 33' 54" local time, which will also be the finish line in about six months.
Sedlacek will set a world's first by sailing non-stop around the world, crossing all five oceans, including Arctic and Antarctic Ocean single-handed and without assistance!
An hour earlier he left the Vendée Globe Pontoon in Les Sables d'Olonne, in the presence of many friends, partners, followers and media teams! With his slogan "Never give up!" he shows that you always have to fight for your dreams, it is hard, you fall, you'll get up and start once again!
At the heart of this extraordinary endeavour is the innovative and sustainable OpenAAL designed and built by the Ocean Tribute Award winner 2023, Innovation Yachts.
The sailing yacht has been meticulously engineered to be environment-friendly and energy-efficient, showcasing Sedlacek's commitment to preserving our planet for future generations. The boat's advanced technology and design make it self-sufficient in terms of power, enabling Sedlacek to complete his voyage without relying on fossil energy sources!
This record-breaking attempt aligns perfectly with Sedlacek's deep-rooted passion for exploring uncharted territories and pushing the boundaries of human achievement. By sailing solo and without assistance, he aims to showcase the utmost skill, determination, and resilience required to conquer such a formidable challenge.
Over the next six months, Sedlacek will navigate his way through the treacherous waters of all five oceans, encircling the globe in a pure test of endurance and seamanship.
His journey will take him to remote corners of the planet, battling the unpredictable forces of nature while relying solely on his own skills and resources.
Sedlacek's ambitious mission symbolises the spirit of adventure and innovation that has come to define Innovation Yachts. By embracing sustainable practices and demonstrating the capabilities of the Open60AAL, he hopes to inspire future generations of sailors, urging them to consider sustainable solutions as they explore the world's oceans!
As Sedlacek embarks on this historic solo voyage, all eyes will be on him as he fearlessly steers his sailing yacht towards the horizon, embracing the challenges that lie ahead.
Fair winds and smooth sailing are wished for the intrepid sailor, who will undoubtedly face triumphs and trials during his half a year-long odyssey!
The entire Innovation Yachts team and supporters eagerly wait for his triumphant return!
You can follow the project online under www.innovation-yachts.com, where his position will be updated every 4 hours on a life map, daily news will be released there as well as on our social media channels.