Groupe Pierre 1er then Lakota then Flo.
At the end of the 1980s the Formula 40 circuit created a mini-revolution in the multihull racing world. Biscuits Cantreau, designed VPLP for Jean Le Cam, was the first trimaran sail on a single float.
Buoyed by the success of its designs on the circuit, VPLP decided to transpose the concept to ocean racing. By extending the waterline 20’ and increasing the beam, the firm came up with an ocean-going trimaran more powerful than the preceding generations.
Pierre 1er, designed for Florence Arthaud, was therefore the fruit of the Formula 40 story, comprising one wing mast, three hulls, a maximum length of 18.28 m, and three rudders. There was no turning back.
Built by Jeanneau Techniques Avancées and launched in 1990, Pierre 1er sailed to victory in the 1990 Route du Rhum with Florence Arthaud at the helm, crossing the finishing line amidst an unforgettable sunset. It was the first time VPLP would win the “Rhum”.
After capsizing in the 1992 Europe 1 Star, the trimaran was bought by American businessman Steve Fossett who enjoyed some success with her. She was later sold to a Swedish sailor before turning to charter work.
The boat was bought by a private individual who lend it to Philippe Poupon, to take the start of the Route du Rhum 2022, under the name of Flo, in homage to Florence Arthaud. It will then be used to make a film on the life of the navigator directed by Géraldine Danon.
