Arctic Tour

In other words, a mini circumnavigation of 9,000 miles by linking the Northwest Passage and the Northeast Passage. Each route has already been sailed individually, but never both in a single season. That is precisely the challenge Nicolas has taken on.

With a set of specifications requiring the ability to beach the boat - or even haul it onto the ice - while still prioritizing seaworthiness for ocean crossings, light-air performance, and ease of maintenance, the adventurer chose Paradox, a 10-meter trimaran. Extremely light (2 tons) and minimalist (no engine), this multihull was built in 1997. We discovered her at the end of a refit in Hennebont, near Lorient. Nicolas opted to reuse numerous components to reduce costs, of course, but also as part of an environmentally conscious approach.

After an initial trial voyage in the ice this summer, Paradox will set off again in 2027 to complete her sailing circumnavigation of the polar world.