Alexia Barrier left today

On a beautiful clear day with a light breeze, Alexia was received in the Palace by the Prince before she headed off into the blue.

Her 60ft racing yacht has been moored near the Capitainerie (harbour master’s office) in Port Hercule, and has been transformed into a laboratory and “school” for the trip. Her priority is to make a concrete contribution to science by gathering data from the water surface for use by scientists and to invite children from across the world on board to learn more about what is at stake. She will also be trialling new carbon-zero equipment (electric motor and fuel cell battery).

Although Alexia is an experienced transatlantic competitor, this is her first round the world trip. While she is away (four to five months) her onshore team will be busy building a boat for the next Vendée Globe 2012 which is the ultimate goal of the project. Luca Bassani and his famous Wally boatyard are fully behind the project to build an super-eco-friendly yacht, as are Camper & Nicholsons International. CL

Website: www.4myplanet.eu