For this 17th edition, the TRANSAT CAFÉ L’OR Le Havre Normandie was awarded the "The Sea in Common" label by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, Biodiversity, Forests, the Sea, and Fisheries as part of the Year of the Sea. This award recognizes projects that raise awareness of ocean conservation and biodiversity among a wide audience in 2025. Through new practices it implements on land and at sea, the organization aims to promote a more respectful, sustainable way of crossing the ocean to help preserve the future of our planet.
COMBINING PERFORMANCE AND COMMITMENT
In 2023 some crews still used cargo ships to return their boat to the European continent from Martinique. To eliminate this means of return transport, which pollutes the air and the climate, all skippers will now be required to return by sail (unless there is a major problem with their boat).
And because investing in the planet should not be seen as a constraint but as a positive outcomee, a commitment prize (along with a financial award) will be presented to the most virtuous crew. It will recognize their involvement in the race and their innovative projects for the planet. This prize will be awarded by a jury composed of the two sponsors of the race, astronaut Claudie Haigneré and explorer Matthieu Tordeur; the management of the French Sailing Federation; and prominent sailing figures.
On October 26, spectators will be invited to follow the start from land, either in the city of Le Havre, notably over brunch on Nelson Mandela Square, or from the magnificent Normandy coast, where the spectacle promises to be spectacular, with four staggered starts between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.
AN EVER MORE RESPONSIBLE RACE VILLAGE
Whether around the Paul Vatine Basin in Le Havre or in the bay of Fort-de-France, the start and finish villages will come alive thanks to the many exhibitors present. All have signed a charter of commitments to make their practices even more environmentally friendly:
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Favor short supply chains for healthier, more local food.
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Mandatory sorting of biowaste to ensure its recovery.
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Use of returnable eco-cups and washable and reusable containers (Le Havre village).
For people who are less able the Le Havre village will offer an easier access to people with reduced mobility on Rue Aviateur Guérin, which will complement the system implemented in 2023, with the Daniel Colliard footbridge, for a better experience as close as possible to the boats.
A Sustainable Mobility Challenge will be launched at the opening of the departure village. Sponsored by explorer Matthieu Tordeur, this competition will offer those arriving by train, bus, bicycle, scooter, or any other low-carbon means a chance to win numerous prizes. The principle: scan the QR code on the race posters and complete a digital questionnaire, indicating the low-carbon mode of transportation used. A daily draw will select the winners.
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