After rounding the iconic Cape Horn last week, symbolizing the harshness of the Southern Seas, Italian sailor Giancarlo Pedote, an expert in solo sailing, is now focusing on the challenges of the Southern Atlantic, particularly those related to the cold front of Cape Frio. This transition marks a new stage in his round-the-world journey, where milder conditions and a gradual return to civilization offer a stark contrast to the ruggedness of the Great South. This passage, both psychologically and strategically crucial, reflects the very essence of the Vendée Globe: adapting to ever-changing environments, sailing with skill, and facing unforeseen weather conditions. "From a psychological point of view, this is an important stage. Returning to the Atlantic feels like coming 'home' and brings a boost of energy to morale," explains the Italian sailor. The change is also felt physically: "Finding temperatures above 20°C is a real relief after a month spent in the icy cold of the Great South. It's a region where you sail with doors closed and little light, a condition that becomes exhausting over time. Returning to milder conditions and being closer to civilization is simply fantastic." However, the transition to the Southern Atlantic is not without its difficulties. The cold front of Cape Frio, a mandatory passage before reaching the Northern Hemisphere, represents a significant strategic challenge. In a zone where conditions evolve rapidly, strategy remains a delicate exercise. "I’ve thought a lot about the strategy to adopt," says Pedote, "but it’s a complex exercise because conditions change daily. Any attempt at precise planning is in vain, forcing me to improvise, adapt continuously, and seize every opportunity that arises."