
Relive the 1979 Mini-Transat through the eyes of its first winner. This gripping tale reveals the dangers, triumphs, and legends of solo sailing’s most iconic race.
A sailing classic in 240 pages.
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Relive the golden age of offshore sailing with *Little Dolphin: On the Beautiful Sea*, a gripping autobiographical account that captures the spirit of adventure, perseverance, and the raw beauty of the open ocean. This book is a must-read for sailing enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who dreams of conquering the waves. Originally published in 1979, this timeless narrative takes you on an unforgettable journey alongside Daniel Gilard, the first-ever winner of the Mini-Transat, a grueling solo transatlantic race that has since become a cornerstone of competitive sailing.
The Mini-Transat, a solo race across the Atlantic in 6.5-meter boats, was once deemed too dangerous—until pioneers like Daniel Gilard proved its potential. *Little Dolphin: On the Beautiful Sea* recounts Gilard’s extraordinary victory in the inaugural 1979 race aboard his boat, *Petit Dauphin*. Through vivid storytelling, Gilard shares the challenges, triumphs, and sheer determination that defined his journey, offering readers a front-row seat to one of sailing’s most iconic moments. This book is not just a race recap; it’s a tribute to the fearless spirit of early offshore sailors who pushed the boundaries of what was possible.
Before his historic win, Gilard honed his skills under the mentorship of sailing legends like Eric Tabarly and Olivier de Kersauson. In *Little Dolphin: On the Beautiful Sea*, he recounts his time aboard *Pen Duick VI* and *Kriter II*, detailing the lessons learned from these masters of the sea. From navigating treacherous waters to mastering the art of solo sailing, Gilard’s experiences provide invaluable insights into the world of competitive offshore racing. His stories are a testament to the camaraderie, rivalry, and relentless pursuit of excellence that defined an era.
This book is more than a personal memoir—it’s a window into a mythical era of sailing, where innovation, courage, and a deep connection to the sea shaped the sport. Gilard’s narrative is filled with thrilling anecdotes, from near-misses at sea to the sheer joy of harnessing the wind’s power. His writing transports readers to a time when sailing was as much about survival as it was about competition, making *Little Dolphin: On the Beautiful Sea* a captivating read for anyone fascinated by maritime history.
Though Daniel Gilard tragically disappeared at sea in 1984 during the La Baule-Dakar race, his legacy lives on. This book ensures that his story—and the spirit of the Mini-Transat—remains alive for future generations. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, an armchair adventurer, or simply someone who appreciates a well-told tale of human endurance, *Little Dolphin: On the Beautiful Sea* is an essential addition to your library. It’s a celebration of the sea, the sailors who dare to challenge it, and the timeless allure of the open water.
Experience the Thrill of Offshore Sailing with a Timeless Classic
Dive into *Little Dolphin: On the Beautiful Sea*, the definitive account of Daniel Gilard’s groundbreaking victory in the 1979 Mini-Transat, the first solo transatlantic race for 6.5-meter boats. This book isn’t just a chronicle of a race—it’s a masterclass in perseverance, seamanship, and the unyielding spirit of adventure. Perfect for sailing enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone who craves a story of triumph against the odds, this 240-page paperback edition brings Gilard’s extraordinary journey to life with vivid detail and raw emotion.
A Firsthand Account of Sailing’s Most Iconic Race
Gilard’s narrative takes you inside the cockpit of *Petit Dauphin*, his 6.5-meter vessel, as he battles the Atlantic’s unpredictable waters. The Mini-Transat was once considered too perilous for solo sailors, but Gilard’s victory in 1979 changed the course of sailing history. Through his eyes, you’ll experience the physical and mental challenges of solo racing, from navigating storms to the sheer exhaustion of days at sea. His story is a testament to the resilience required to conquer one of the toughest races in the world.
Lessons from the Legends of the Sea
Before his historic win, Gilard trained under some of sailing’s greatest icons, including Eric Tabarly and Olivier de Kersauson. In this book, he shares the invaluable lessons learned aboard *Pen Duick VI* and *Kriter II*, offering a rare glimpse into the minds of the sport’s pioneers. These mentorships shaped Gilard into a sailor capable of taking on the Mini-Transat, and his insights provide a unique perspective on the evolution of offshore racing. Whether you’re a sailor or simply a fan of maritime history, his reflections on leadership, strategy, and the sea’s unpredictable nature are both inspiring and instructive.
A Tribute to a Bygone Era of Sailing
*Little Dolphin: On the Beautiful Sea* captures the essence of a time when sailing was as much about survival as it was about competition. Gilard’s writing transports you to the late 1970s, an era of innovation and daring feats on the water. His tales of near-misses, triumphs, and the sheer beauty of the open ocean paint a vivid picture of a sport that was still finding its footing. This book is a celebration of the sailors who dared to push the limits, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates the history and romance of the sea.
Technical Specifications Built for Readers
This paperback edition is designed for comfort and durability, with dimensions of 22 x 15 x 1.1 cm and a lightweight 0.7 kg, making it easy to take anywhere—whether you’re reading at home or on the go. The 240-page layout ensures a smooth reading experience, with clear text and a sturdy binding that holds up to repeated use. Written entirely in French, this book is a treasure for francophone readers and sailing aficionados alike, offering a piece of maritime history that’s as engaging as it is informative.
Discover the technical details that make *Little Dolphin: On the Beautiful Sea* a standout addition to any library. This paperback edition features a compact and lightweight design, measuring 22 x 15 x 1.1 cm and weighing just 0.7 kg, perfect for reading on the go. With 240 pages of gripping narrative, this book is printed in French and offers a durable, high-quality reading experience. Originally published in 1979, this reissue brings Daniel Gilard’s legendary story to a new generation of readers in a format that’s both practical and immersive.
With a legacy rooted in maritime literature, this publisher has spent decades preserving the stories of the sea, from legendary sailors to the races that shaped the sport. Their catalog is a treasure trove for enthusiasts, offering meticulously crafted books that blend history, adventure, and technical insight. Each publication is designed to honor the spirit of sailing while making these timeless tales accessible to modern readers.
The book was originally published in 1979.
This edition contains 240 pages.
The book has a paperback binding.
The dimensions are 22 x 15 x 1.1 cm.
No, this edition is only available in French.
The author describes his experiences with Eric Tabarly on Pen Duick VI and Olivier de Kersauson on Kriter II.
The author won the Mini-Transat, a solo transatlantic race for 6.5-meter boats, in 1979.
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