Since Thomas Coville began his single-handed North Atlantic record attempt on Wednesday, his 105-foot maxi trimaran Sodeb’O is enjoying a record pace. Coville has covered 546 miles in his first 24 hours (an average of 22.8 knots), building a 192 mile lead over current record holder Francis Joyon’s time in 2005.

As forecast, Thomas Coville has benefited from relatively flat seas for the first 24 hours and a steady 20 knot Southwesterly. These conditions have enabled him to sail under full mainsail and small gennaker for the majority of the time. During the night, he reduced the sail area a little and hoisted the solent due to a large amount of shipping and a pea-souper fog that prevented the skipper from seeing either the top of the mast or the bow of the boat.

The infamous Grand Banks fog has now lifted, which should enable Coville to catch up on his sleep, as the poor visibility provided for only two 20 minute catnaps.

To beat the record set by Francis Joyon in 2005 of 6 days, 4 hours, 1 minute and 37 seconds, Coville will need to average over 19.75 knots for 2,980 miles, finishing at Lizard Point before 1545 (UT) on Tuesday 15th July. Coville is the current 24 hour speed record holder aboard his maxi Sodeb’O, having covered 619.3 miles at an average of 25.8 knots.

Keep up with his attempt on the Sodeb’O website.