Humphrey knows catamarans well: he made the switch to multihulls back in 2015, at his partner's request. "They're much more stable and much more comfortable. We lived aboard from 2015 to 2021. It was our apartment!" With this new FP44, he wanted to take comfort to the next level, while also enjoying greater peace of mind. "I was tired of constantly fixing things. Now I've got a brand-new catamaran, and I'm happy!"
His first participation in the Rallye des Îles du Soleil, in 2022, was primarily motivated by safety. His partner preferred to cross the Atlantic with organized support. But if Humphrey is back this year, it's mainly because of the atmosphere! "The first time was absolutely fantastic! We made friends we're still close to today. Some of them are even back here again this year. We love the atmosphere, so we're doing it again!"
After the crossing, Asteria IV will remain in the Caribbean. Humphrey has no plans to return to the Mediterranean. "It's too complicated. There are boats everywhere, too many restrictions… In the Caribbean, the wind is consistent, there's plenty of space, and everything is easy!"
The FP44 will initially be offered for charter to help cover the cost of ownership. And after that? Humphrey fully intends to take back his catamaran and enjoy the Caribbean for years to come.
A third Atlantic crossing that looks very much like a one-way ticket to a new life in the sunshine!
