Four Orma boats return

Four former Orma-class boats will compete in the Vintage Multi category of the 2026 Route du Rhum, a sailing race that begins on November 1st from Saint-Malo in Ille-et-Vilaine. These boats were originally designed for the Orma class, a category of racing multihulls that dominated ocean racing in the late 20th century.

Reviving a sailing era

The return of these boats marks a revival of the golden age of 60-foot multihulls, a type of sailboat known for its speed and complexity. These vessels were once the pinnacle of offshore racing technology and are now being brought back for this special category of the Route du Rhum.

Challenging to sail

The Vintage Multi category includes boats that are particularly difficult to handle, requiring constant attention from their crews. This is due to their design, which makes them sensitive to wind and sea conditions, and their age, which can affect their reliability and performance.

Route du Rhum details

The Route du Rhum is a prestigious transatlantic sailing race that starts in Saint-Malo and ends in Guadeloupe. It is one of the most famous sailing events in the world, attracting both professional and amateur sailors who compete in various categories.