Everything you need to know to follow the start of the Transat Paprec
by Transat Paprec 18 Apr 11:48 PDT
20 April 2025
Transat Paprec © OC Sport Pen Duick
This Sunday at 13:02, the 19 duos competing in the Transat Paprec will set sail across the Atlantic Ocean. The morning promises to be full of emotion.
All the sailors will greet the public on stage starting at 10:00. They will then board their Figaro Beneteau 3 boats and leave the docks between 10:30 and 11:30, heading to the starting line for what promises to be a spectacular coastal course. Spectators will be able to enjoy the show from the sea, the shore, or behind their screens. Here's how.
At sea. Safety guidelines to follow
Boaters wishing to watch the start from the sea will need to be especially cautious. Specific areas near the starting line, at Cap Coz, and within the Concarneau channel will be closed for navigation to ensure the safety of the competitors. "It is crucial that other boats—those not part of the race or the organization—respect these no-go zones to ensure a smooth start," emphasized Race Director Francis Le Goff.
From shore. Prime viewing spots
Those lucky enough to be in Finistère will have front-row seats for the start. At the race village, fans will be able to cheer on the skippers as they take the stage before saying goodbye to their loved ones on the docks. The start will also be broadcast live on a big screen in the Transat Paprec village, located at Quai Carnot.
The coastal route offers multiple vantage points to catch the first miles of the race. "The two best spots I'd recommend are Cabellou and the Ville Close, where spectators can see the boats up close," says Francis Le Goff. To a lesser extent, good views are also possible from Cap Coz, Beg-Meil, and Les Sables Blancs.
Online. Live broadcast to catch every moment
The grand start will be streamed live on video via the Transat Paprec YouTube channel (accessible from the official website). Hosted by Samantha Davies, the broadcast starts at 12:00 and will cover the final goodbyes, boat departures, and a large portion of the coastal course following the official start. The race will also be shown by several media partners, including France TV's website. Highlights, reactions, and expert insights will be shared across the event's social media channels.
The live race tracker will go online a few hours before the start and will be updated every 5 minutes until the boats are 25 miles offshore. During the race, tracking updates will occur hourly.
View it here: transatpaprec.geovoile.com/2025
For media outlets, an iframe link is available upon request for platform integration.
Weather outlook for the start
Conditions are expected to be mild for the start, with 12 to 15 knots of westerly wind and a few sunny spells despite some cloud cover. After the coastal course and a brief lull, the skippers will face a front on their first night at sea. "It shouldn't be too active, but consistent, with average winds around 25 knots," explains Francis Le Goff. The crossing of the Bay of Biscay could be completed in about two days. Further south, the developing Portuguese trade wind should allow the fleet to maintain good downwind speed under spinnaker all the way to La Palma. The first arrivals are expected just over seven days after the start.
Check out the dedicated article for full weather insights.
Personality of the day. Émilien Jacquelin, a Biathlete on the Docks
A world champion and Olympic medalist stopped by the Transat Paprec village.
Invited by watchmaker Seiko, Émilien Jacquelin spent the day at the event. The French biathlete, who recently wrapped up his season, chatted with Quentin Vlamynck and Audrey Ogereau, the skippers of Les Étoiles Filantes, also supported by Seiko. "It's my first time in Concarneau and I find it really interesting," he said. "There are a lot of parallels between the sea and the mountains—both are challenging environments where managing the weather is crucial."
Keen to discover sailing one day, the biathlete added with a smile: "Both worlds require you to give your best."
Bonus info. The Transat Paprec with a lighthearted twist!
If you've been wandering the race village, you've probably seen them: Hugo Guillochin, mic in hand, and director Benjamin Lemarié. Together, they capture the spirit of the race in their nightly video series Dockside Stories, offering a humorous behind-the-scenes look.
"I didn't know much about sailing or Concarneau—that's actually what pushed me to take on the challenge," says Hugo. A reporter and columnist, he's used to covering festivals and events with a behind-the-scenes flair. "Watching the skippers prepare to cross the Atlantic is incredibly moving!"
The videos are a great way to soak in the race atmosphere while waiting for the big start. Tune in on the event's social media!
Key moments to come
Saturday (10:00 to 23:00)
From 15:00: Café de la Transat on the Main Stage - Guest: Charlie Dalin
21:00: Concert by La Ruda
Sunday (09:00 to 18:00)
From 10:00: Skipper presentations on the Main Stage
From 10:30: Boat departures
13:02: Official race start at sea
Find the full program of activities on the race's official website.
Practical info
- Free entry
- Village located at Quai Carnot, Concarneau
- Opening hours: from 10:00 (9:00 on Sunday)
- Closing at 23:00 on evening events, 18:00 on Sunday