The new Maxi Edmond de Rothschild (Gitana 18) has completed her first sea trials off the French coast. The 32-metre ocean-racing trimaran sailed for the first time on 10 March after launching on 14 February. The milestone marks the start of skipper Charles Caudrelier’s preparations for the 2026 offshore racing season.
The outing followed several weeks of work by the Gitana technical team. Engineers finalised onboard hydraulics, electronics and mechanical systems after completing standard dockside tests.
The first sail took place in light winds between Groix and Belle-Île-en-Mer, near Lorient. “Our first impressions are very good,” Caudrelier said after returning ashore. “It’s a real pleasure for the whole team to head out to sea after the many hours spent in the office and the shipyard.” The session was designed as a technical shakedown rather than a speed test.
The team focused on familiarising themselves with the boat’s new systems and handling. “Everything’s different, so it’s a whole new learning experience,” Caudrelier said. “We need to pace ourselves in a controlled manner as we get her up to speed.” During the sail, the crew hoisted sails and tested several key systems, including the steering setup and rudders.
The trimaran’s foils will be installed later in the testing programme. Caudrelier said patience will be important as the team works through each development stage. “We’re still only at the beginning of the story,” he said. “There is a lot to get our heads around, and we need to take our time.”
Gitana 18 represents the latest generation of high-performance offshore multihulls. The boat is designed specifically for foiling ocean racing and extreme speeds. The trimaran also carries a distinctive artistic livery.
The design was created by French artists Florian and Michaël Quistrebert, working with graphic designer Jean-Baptiste Epron, in collaboration with the Palais de Tokyo in Paris. The artwork continues Gitana’s tradition of combining offshore racing technology with contemporary art.
