EXTRAORDINARY BOATS
PRB is the latest IMOCA to launch. Originally designed for The Ocean Race, it will be Kevin Escoffier's boat for the next Vendée Globe
As if the new PRB IMOCA 60 were not eye-catching enough, the story behind it is truly remarkable. The reason Kevin Escoffier needed a new IMOCA in a hurry is well documented: in early December 2020 Escoffier was racing in the Vendée Globe around the world race, 800 miles south of Cape Town, when his previous PRB suddenly and catastrophically broke up (see page 48 for Escoffier's recovery).
The previous PRB, a 2009 Verdier-VPLP design that had been retrofitted with foils, sank without trace, leaving Escoffier not only without a boat, but also without answers as to why his yacht had broken up. One thing not in doubt, however, was his determination to start the 2024 Vendée Globe. His sponsors were quick to affirm their support – pledging new backing even before Escoffier had landed ashore after his rescue.
Immediately after the 2020/21 Vendée
