05/06/2026
S/Y of the day ⛵
Meet Cœur, an 18.28m IMOCA class yacht launched in July 2022, designed by Sam Manuard and one of the entrants for the Vendée Globe 2028, the ultimate solo, non-stop, unassisted round-the-world race.
What makes her truly special is the little girl on her sail. Naylah, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, underwent heart surgery in 2021 and became the emblem of the Initiatives-Cœur association. Her portrait was painted by Titouan Lamazou, the winner of the 1st Vendée Globe in 1990.
After eight years at the helm, two Globe races, and 187 children saved, legendary skipper Samantha Davies has passed the torch to Violette Diderot, at 23, the youngest skipper ever to complete the Vendée Globe.
Born in 2001, Violette became French champion in the open420 at just 15, made her first English Channel crossing as a teenager, and crossed the Atlantic solo at 18. She's now sailing alongside her lifelong idol, Samantha Davies, who remains actively involved as technical and sports coach.
Initiatives-Cœur isn't just a racing boat. She's a vessel carrying hope – every race, every nautical mile, every finish line brings life-changing heart surgery to children who need it.
Have you ever spotted her out on the water?