One for thrill-seekers! After leaving the South American coastline behind, the fleet heads south east into the infamous South Atlantic. Storms, albatross and tactical decisions - how far south to go? How big will the first weather system be? Do you race the rhumb line or add miles looking for stronger winds? These are big decisions that can mean the difference between a podium position and a mid-fleet finish.
Upon leaving South America, teams will say farewell to the Trade Winds of the South Atlantic as they head towards the bigger conditions of the Southern Ocean with spinnakers flying.
Big tactical decisions await; previous editions have seen podium places decided by just 15 minutes.
As the fleet races south-east, long rolling swells will provide fantastic conditions for surfing down waves. An exhilarating leg, boat speeds will easily be in excess of 20 knots and some teams have previously reported speeds of over 30 knots as impressive fountains of water emerge over the bow.
As a predominantly downwind leg, the asymmetric spinnaker will feature heavily, though crew will need to be careful not to overpower it as a blown spinnaker will compromise the rest of their race. As you close in on the point where the Atlantic meets the Indian Ocean, the race will almost be over. The traditional African welcome awaits as you finally step ashore having crossed the South Atlantic Ocean.