Geronimo, Olivier de Kersauson’s maxi triamaran, started at 12.07 GMT off The Lizard. The boat is only just back in real action after rudder modifications following her Jules Verne attempt earlier this year.

The other two attempts, Maiden II, the giant catamaran sister ship to Orange, and L’hydroptere, a Foiler from France, started from Ventnor off the Isle of Wight.

This is the first record attempt for L’Hydroptere, and whilst she is undoubtedly fast, it will be interesting to see how she fairs over this long distance.

The current record of 5 days, 21 hours 5 minutes and 27 seconds was recorded in October 1994 by Steve Fossett on the 60ft Triamaran, Lakota.