Image: Mather and Co worked on the new museum

Museo Volvo Ocean Race, a visitor attraction allowing visitors to experience the challenges faced by elite sailors competing in the Volvo Ocean Race, has opened in Alicante, Spain.

The new museum is located at the headquarters of the Volvo Ocean Race headquarters and has been designed by Cheshire, UK-based consultancy, Mather and Co.

Visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to see race action unfold from within the high-tech Race Control Room, which monitors the nine-month, 39,000-nautical mile race.

Interactive touch-screen panels examine the history of the race; life on board the competing vessels; marine ecosystems around the world; and telecommunications among other themes.

A changing programme of exhibitions is also planned for Museo Volvo Ocean Race, which is located at the port of Alicante's former maritime station.

Mather and Co initially helped with the theming and graphic enhancement of offices at the race headquarters, before helping to create a fully immersive and interactive environment.

Alberto Fabra, president of the Valencian regional government, said: "The Volvo Ocean Race has helped the city of Alicante gain recognition throughout the world.

"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."

Details: www.volvooceanrace.com (Volvo Ocean Race)
Details: www.volvooceanrace.com (Museo Volvo Ocean Race)