L'hydroptère capsizes after reaching speed peaks of 61 knots

L'hydroptère, the record-breaking French trimaran, capsized this morning after reaching the spectacular speed of 61 knots, under winds between 35 and 38 knots and gusts reaching 45 knots. The sea being considerably choppier than the previous days, the same gusts that propelled the French yacht to record-breaking speeds caused her also to capsize.

Fortunately, there were no serious injuries and the crew suffered a few scratches. The yacht will be towed to Fos sur Mer, once conditions allow it.

L'Hydroptère capsizes after reaching 61 knots. 21 December 2008. Video copyright l'Hydroptère


L'hydroptère capsizes while trying to break her own record. Fos sur Mer, 21 December 2008. Photo copyright Photo Gilles Martin-Raget / Hydroptere

L'hydroptère capsizes while trying to break her own record. Fos sur Mer, 21 December 2008. Photo copyright Photo Gilles Martin-Raget / Hydroptere

L'hydroptère capsizes while trying to break her own record. Fos sur Mer, 21 December 2008. Photo copyright Photo Gilles Martin-Raget / Hydroptere

L'hydroptère capsizes while trying to break her own record. Fos sur Mer, 21 December 2008. Photo copyright Photo Gilles Martin-Raget / Hydroptere