Professional skipper recognized for his bold technological choices, Armel Tripon has become a driving force in the evolution of modern hull designs. His career is marked by groundbreaking projects, including the first Ocean Fifty trimaran designed for stable flight and the first "scow" type IMOCA with a spade bow. His approach is based on a constant pursuit of nautical performance through shape geometry and composite structure optimization, placing engineering at the center of his piloting.
Profile & Technical Approach: Precision in Tuning and Monitoring
Armel Tripon's technical profile is characterized by close collaboration with design offices, particularly the Sam Manuard firm. An expert in prototype fine-tuning, he favors an approach where cockpit ergonomics and appendage management are automated to maximize average speed. His piloting relies on a detailed analysis of speed polar diagrams and rigorous monitoring of structural loads on carbon components.
In his onboard configuration, he places great importance on the interface between the sailor and the machine. To ensure the precision of his navigation and the constant flow of weather information, he collaborates with Skysat for the integration of his onboard electronics and his offshore connectivity solutions. This setup allows for optimized management of electrical power and real-time monitoring of the vessel's parameters, ensuring optimal exploitation of the boat's potential in the most demanding sea conditions.
Record & Highlights: A Benchmark Career
Winner of the 2018 Route du Rhum (Multi50): A significant victory aboard Réauté Chocolat, validating the contribution of foils on 50-foot multihulls.
11th in the 2020-2021 Vendée Globe: First round-the-world race completed on a new-generation scow-bow IMOCA (L'Occitane en Provence).
Winner of the 2023 Transat Jacques Vabre (Ocean Fifty)
