Sailors returning from the Vendée Globe face both triumph and challenges as they adjust to life on land after weeks at sea. Record-holder Charlie Dalin and fellow competitors like Yoann Richomme share insights on the physical and mental toll of the race, including sleep disturbances and health risks from media exposure. Recovery involves rebuilding muscle strength and adapting to terrestrial nutrition, all while navigating feelings of “Vendée Blues” as they transition back to normalcy.
The Return to Solid Ground: Celebrating Vendée Globe Champions
After weeks of challenging solitude at sea, the first sailors have triumphantly returned to shore. Following Charlie Dalin’s record-breaking victory in just 64 days, 19 hours, 22 minutes, and 49 seconds, his fellow competitor Yoann Richomme completed his inaugural Vendée Globe on Wednesday, January 15. In just a few hours, Sébastien Simon will join them to complete the podium for this remarkable anniversary edition.
Adapting to Life After the Race
Having spent extended periods isolated from the world, with only albatrosses, dolphins, and whales for company, these skippers will soon find themselves reacquainted with their daily lives. However, transitioning back to land is not without its challenges. Jérémie Beyou, who arrived in 2021, shared his experience: “The first few hours are exhilarating, filled with reunions, showers, and a good night’s sleep, but soon after, the fatigue hits you.”
The toll of the Vendée Globe is significant. “Last time, I took eight months to recover,” revealed Charlie Dalin, the champion of the 2024-2025 edition, reflecting on the physical demands of the race. Yoann Richomme echoed this sentiment, noting that “it takes nearly two months just to feel normal again.” A stark contrast can be seen in before-and-after photos of these sailors, which highlight the intense energy expended during the grueling competition. While Dalin’s complexion shows signs of vitality, his face bears the marks of exhaustion, with dark circles and sunken cheeks.
As these endurance champions adapt to life on land, they will be in high demand from the media eager to hear their stories. This whirlwind of attention, however, can complicate their recovery. Laure Jacolot, the race doctor, cautioned, “The longer they delay recovery, the longer it takes to feel normal again. Most find it hard to quickly return to quality sleep.”
Yannick Bestaven, who won the Vendée Globe 2020-2021, admitted he struggled with sleep patterns even three months post-race, stating, “I often find it hard to fall asleep at night and feel sluggish during the day.”
Moreover, after being isolated for weeks, the first racers to return may face health risks as they encounter a host of germs in the media frenzy. Armel Le Cléac’h, the 2017 winner, recounted how he fell seriously ill after similar post-race commitments. As flu season approaches, there’s a possibility these champions may don masks for extra precaution.
To fully recover from their oceanic journey, the sailors must gradually recondition their bodies. Walking is a significant first step, as Charlie Dalin humorously noted, “The largest walk we can do on a boat is a round trip of about 18 meters.” After spending months aboard, skippers often feel the impact on their muscle strength, particularly in their legs. Jean Le Cam stated, “They arrive without leg strength or cardio, and it’s no surprise that those who return after three months struggle to walk.”
Additionally, the transition from sea to land can induce a sensation of “land sickness,” as Romain Attanasio described, “When you set foot on solid ground after so long, it feels like the ground is moving beneath you.” Fortunately, this sensation is usually fleeting, allowing skippers to enjoy a celebratory drink in no time.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in their recovery. After indulging in freeze-dried and canned meals that matched their energy levels, these sailors will relish the flavors of terrestrial cuisine. For many, a hearty steak and fries is the ultimate comfort food. Charlie Dalin eagerly anticipated, “I can’t wait to shuttle between the couch and the fridge. I’m ready to indulge and enjoy some well-deserved downtime.”
The conclusion of a Vendée Globe often brings immense relief but can also lead to what sailors refer to as “Vendée Blues.” As Jean-Yves Chauve explained, “There can be a backlash when transitioning back to normal life, particularly after achieving something monumental like scaling Everest.” Jean Le Cam encapsulated this sentiment, stating, “We are a bit out of sync… floating in the clouds, still recovering from the Vendée Globe.”