Olivier de Kersauson’s Geronimo crossed the Trophée Jules Verne start line at over 29 knots at 25 minutes and 16 seconds past 1 o’clock (GMT) this morning.

The 11-strong crew of the world’s largest trimaran had been waiting calmly off Ushant since early evening for the cold front that would be the signal for their departure.

Thus opens the first chapter in what will be a full-blown record campaign. This four-year programme will see Olivier de Kersauson, his crew and partners Cap Gemini Ernst & Young and Schneider Electric attack all the world’s great sailing records, including the Trophée Jules Verne and its circumnavigation via all three capes. This epic 40,000-kilometre voyage will take Geronimo through, or around, 17 weather systems.

To beat his own record, Olivier de Kersauson must cross the finish line before 46 minutes and 24 seconds past 7 on the evening of 30 April.