I don't know why this hasn't got more press. Theolia, France's leading wind company, is sponsoring quite the strangest looking alternative energy powered vehicle in years, to cross the Atlantic, albeit the sunniest route, from Senegal to Martinique. Windream One has to be seen to be believed;

In fact, there's even a short movie of it here.

There are certain characteristics that make this solar-powered blimp highly unique;

i) A tri-lobe delta shape - meaning it can carry a propulsion engine at the tail, as well as the sides
ii) A keel that can be lowered to the sea, called a "chien de mer", to steer the dirigible when the wind is blowing in a favourable direction
iii) A paltry 2 kilowatt engine that will carry two people, food and supplies for 8-10 days

It's the second point, that I find particularly unusual, just look at it . . .

You almost wonder if the wind-powered component was insisted upon by Theolia !

The solar electric cruising mode will give a speed of 20 km per hour and when "sailing", a very respectable 20 knots. This will not be a very comfortable journey - there really isn't much room - and I can't see that there will be much to do either. My guess is that they'll be using that GPS phone an awful lot to stave off the boredom !