The museum is the first in the world to offer visitors a chance to experience the extreme challenges faced by the elite sailors competing in the Volvo Ocean Race, the longest and toughest professional sporting event in the world, which has its headquarters in Alicante.
The opening was attended by Alberto Fabra, President of the Valencian Regional Government, Sonia Castedo, Mayor of Alicante and Knut Frostad, CEO of Volvo Ocean Race."The Volvo Ocean Race has helped the city of Alicante gain recognition throughout the world," said Fabra. "In this permanent museum people will learn about the effort of the competitors in the race, which should serve as a stimulus for all those coming to visit us. This is the sort of spirit we need in these times."
Adults and children will have a unique opportunity to see the action as it unfolds from inside the high-tech Race Control room, where the nine-month, 39,000 nautical mile race is monitored around the clock.Situated at the port of Alicante's former maritime station, the Museo will transport visitors into a world of entertainment and fun. Using cutting edge technology, visitors can engage with the Volvo Ocean Race through interactive touch screen panels that explore the history of the race, life on board, marine ecosystems and telecommunications among many other themes. The Museo will also play host to a changing programme of exhibitions that are sure to keep everyone interested.
With an aim to engage land lubbers and sailing enthusiasts alike, the museum will offer an educational programme that will inform curious minds about the values of life at sea, sailing and sport through various activities aimed at schools and the general public.
The shop and the café, located on the first floor with direct access to a spacious terrace, round off the facilities at this magnificent new museum, which organisers expect will become a point of reference for culture and leisure in the city of Alicante.
"It is with tremendous pride that we are opening the doors to the Museo Volvo Ocean Race, a new and unique project that will surprise, delight and inform thousands of visitors each year," said Knut Frostad, Chief Executive Officer of the Volvo Ocean Race and himself a four-time competitor in the race.
"Alicante is our home and we are thrilled to say we can welcome our neighbours to visit. It is also gratifying to be able to welcome our first visitors while the closest Volvo Ocean Race in our 39-year history is taking place. As we wait to see who will take the overall prize in Galway in July, we look forward to educating and inspiring new generations of fans at this magnificent new museum -- a striking investment in the future."
For more information about the museum, visit www.museovolvooceanrace.com
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