Le Cam - rescued

VM Materiaux skipper swims to PRB, but Riou's yacht sustains damage

Jean Le Cam has been rescued and is now safe and sound aboard PRB, but in the process PRB has sustained damage.

This evening a full-scale rescue operation was in place to retrieve Jean le Cam from the upturned hull of VM Matériaux. A Chilean Navy tug boat equipped with divers was on its way, a helicopter had been deployed and the tanker Sonangol Kassanje was still standing by - but in the end it was Vincent Riou who successfully recovered fellow skipper and friend.

At 1810 (GMT) the Race Directors spoke to Vincent Riou, who reported that Jean le Cam had climbed out of VM Matériaux's escape hatch wearing his survival suit. Vincent Riou circled repeatedly to retrieve the skipper from the water, and on the fourth attempt he successfully hauled le Cam on board PRB.

However, on his final approach alongside VM Matériaux's upturned hull, the end of PRB’s port deck spreader was damaged when it collided with the upturned keel fin. Le Cam was able to scramble aboard soon after and appears to be unhurt, as Riou reported that both skippers worked on deck to stabilise PRB’s mast. They are now sailing slowly, on starboard tack, on a heading of 110deg with three reefs in the main and no headsails up.

Armel Le Cléac’h on Brit Air, who was also standing by to assist in the rescue, is now following PRB as they investigate ways to repair the rig.

“It's an incredible story that has a happy end,” said Alain Gautier, the Vendée Globe safety consultant.

The rescue operation by the Chilean Navy has been called off - the helicopter has turned around, as has the Chilean tug, which was set to reach VM Matériaux tomorrow morning. The supertanker which has been standing alongside since this morning has also been released.