Huge Trimaran Spindrift 2 (ex Banque Populaire 5) launched.

Spindrift 2, the largest racing trimaran in the world has been launched at Lorient..Yann Guichard, co-skipper with Dona Bertarelli of the giant multihull, has overseen the technical team and the delicate operation of leaving the boatyard; the hoisting and launching of the boat have required at least twenty people.

Spindrift 2 was officially unveiled with a new livery on July 2 at the Keroman naval boatyard, the submarine base at Lorient, and has since been prepared to enter the water. The giant of the seas, holder of the Jules Verne Trophy and many other speed records, had its mast fitted immediately after the launch.
The operation to launch such a machine demands the greatest professionalism and attention to detail. A crane with a lifting capacity of 300 tons has been used to manage the 40-metre long, 23-metre wide and 20-tonne Spindrift 2. The transport of the trimaran from its hanger at Keroman to the water was like a “centipede”. Once in the water, Spindrift 2 received its means of propulsion; the original 44,5-metre mast.
After running the rigging and hoisting the sails, Spindrift 2 could begin the campaign of training sessions and development at the weekend, with the first race, the Rolex Fastnet.