Quentin Debois’ Solo Atlantic Speed Record Attempt is Underway
On January 6 at 10:59:36 UTC, Belgian solo sailor Quentin Debois crossed the official start line off Cádiz, Spain, launching his attempt to break the solo Atlantic speed record to San Salvador, Bahamas.
The clock is officially running. Quentin is racing west across roughly 7,200 kilometres (4,500 nautical miles) of Atlantic Ocean, with a record time to beat of 30 days and 22 hours. Alone aboard his 6.50-metre Mini Transat, he is powered by UK Sailmakers sails, with sponsorship led by UK Sailmakers Belgium and support from across the global UK Sailmakers network.
A Fast and Controlled Opening Phase
The early days have unfolded exactly as planned. By Days 4–5, Quentin accelerated as he approached the Canary Islands, confirming a route east of Arrecife. He rounded the archipelago right on schedule, executing clean, well-timed gybes and taking full advantage of wind shifts along the island chain.
One of the final gybes before a long, uninterrupted stretch of sailing has now been completed. With that, the crossing enters a decisive phase.
Settled Into the Trades
Almost one week into his attempt at this record, the Canary Islands are behind him and the Atlantic lies fully ahead. The boat is now set up for sustained downwind sailing, with Quentin expected to remain on the same tack for close to a week as the Trade Winds take hold.
A small disturbed zone lies ahead, but current forecasts indicate it should not significantly impact progress. From here on, it’s classic Atlantic sailing — rhythm, consistency, and speed over long distances as the miles start to roll beneath the hull.
Precision, Preparation, and Support
While this is a solo effort on board, Quentin is backed by a focused shore team. He checks in daily with his weather router, who provides detailed forecasts and strategic routing advice. Every decision, however, including sail changes, course adjustments, and risk management, is made alone at sea.
Months of preparation led to this moment. Final optimizations were made to the boat, the sail inventory was carefully selected for speed and durability, and every system was checked and rechecked before departure. It is a project where preparation, confidence, and trust in equipment all converge.
Powered by UK Sailmakers
In preparation for these epic voyages, Debois enlisted the help of UK Sailmakers Belgium’s Michel Lefebvre. Together, sailor and sailmaker scrutinized every aspect of the Mini Transat’s rigging and sail inventory. The result was a refined sail plan tailored for high-speed ocean sailing, featuring a new UK Sailmakers Code 0 along with A2, A3, and A5 spinnakers designed to maximize performance across a wide range of Atlantic conditions.
The project reflects the strength of the UK Sailmakers network as a whole. Expertise from across the group has contributed to optimizing the setup for this demanding record attempt, demonstrating what is possible when advanced sail design meets real-world offshore racing.It is a powerful reminder of what it truly means to Sail With Confidence.
Follow the Crossing
Quentin’s progress can be followed live via GPS tracking with wind data and regular updates and photos will continue to be shared as the crossing unfolds.
The Trade Winds are blowing, the sails are drawing, and the record clock is ticking.
Let’s go, Quentin!
