In order to minimise the risk of collision between the IMOCA boats and marine megafauna, Biodiversity Protection Zones (BPZs) have been set up along the course. These zones, identified as key breeding and feeding grounds for cetaceans, have been determined by the organisation following studies carried out with the Share The Ocean consortium, supported by the Vendée Globe Foundation. Their delimitation is based on scientific criteria, statistical analyses and documented collision incidents.
For the same reasons and for safety reasons linked to the dense maritime traffic around New York, the start of the race will be given 80 miles from the coast. The skippers will be travelling to the start area at reduced speed.
