Young female adventurer sets sail from Richards Bay

After three months on terra firma in Richards Bay, the open ocean is beckoning French Canadian sailor Claire Valade who set sail for Cape Town last Tuesday.

The 25-year-old sailor and watersports’ enthusiast arrived on South African soil last year, in East London. From there she enjoyed the sights and sounds of the country while road-tripping to Richards Bay, where she arrived in December.

‘I loved spending time in South Africa, and Richards Bay where the sailing community has been so welcoming and helpful,’ said Claire before setting sail.

‘I arrived in South Africa by boat from Australia but then parted ways with the person I had been sailing with.’ After making her way to Richards Bay, Claire learnt of a boat, Eskimo, that was for sale.

‘I looked at the boat, loved it and knew it would be a good fit for me to handle either on my own or with one crew.’ Claire bought Eskimo, a Dreadnought 32, five weeks ago.

After carrying out some minor repairs, she was ready for the next chapter of her journey. ‘I’m sailing to Cape Town with my crew, Martin Weidinger, so I can get used to the boat.

But from then on I expect to go solo.’ From Cape Town, she will sail to St Helena island before heading to the Azores. ‘After that, I will sail on to France to spend some time with my family.

‘ In true Zululand fashion, Claire was treated to a special send-off, and was given a bottle of His Majesty the late King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu’s Bayede wine, and the late king’s book.

She was the first civilian to receive a copy of the book, with Mangosuthu Buthelezi the only other person to have been given a copy. Philanthropist Ishwar Ramlutchman did the honours of sending Claire off, and also gave her a beautiful shawl.

Passionate about videography, Claire shares footage from her travels on her Instagram account – @claireamyv. Eskimo is one of 63 international vessels to have registered at the Zululand Yacht Club this season.