Francis Joyon’s new trimaranIdecwas launched in Lorient harbour yesterday, Tuesday 19 June. Designed by Nigel Irens and Benoit Cabarret, the boat and Joyon will take on MacArthur’s round-the-world solo record later this year.

After almost 15 months in construction, the boat will be fitted with her rig this weekend. The sails from Incidence are ready and Francis hopes to go on the boat’s maiden voyage nxt week. Once she is ready, the new Idec will be taken to her new homeport of La Trinite-sur-Mer, where more test work will continue.

‘I am in a hurry to take her out,’ said Joyon, ‘It’s been more than two months that I haven’t sailed and I feel like I am rusting!’

Apart from trying to steal his crown back from MacArthur, also on the agenda is the solo record across the Pacific and the Route of Discovery from Cadiz to San Salvador, as well as the 24 hour record.