Introducing The Volvo 65

Well, we've already had a Volvo 60 and a Volvo 70, so I guess it seems inevitable that if the Volvo Ocean Race is going to tweak the boats again a 65-footer is inevitable. The real change, however, is that they are going one-design. Here's the announcement:

This is an excellent move. Farr will design the boats; they will carry just 8 crew (10 if all-women), and a media

maestro; and they will be almost as fast as the current VO70s.

In theory that means that the costs will come down and open the race up to more teams (Volvo is hoping for 8-10 in the next edition). And there will be no more whining by the crews about how their boat can't keep up in light air, or on a tight reach. The best sailors will win. Period.

I guess the only big question is whether they will be more reliable. That is key.

Anyhow, If you want to dig deep into all the implications and nuances of the new boat, then head on over to the Sailing Anarchy Forum on it.