Volvo Ocean Race

Yesterday was a big day in Alicante, as yesterday marked the beginning of the Volvo Ocean Race. A around the world yacht race, the Volvo Ocean Race will last 9 months and cover over 39,000 nautical miles. This is the second time the starting point of the race was Alicante, and it certainly was a sight to be seen. For the past three weeks, there has been a race village set up down by the port to prepare for the race. The past week there have been concerts, activities, and all kinds of cool things to check out. Yesterday was the official start of the race and all the opening race ceremonies. It was so fun to see all the teams getting ready. There were a lot of people there from all over.

Volvo Ocean Race boats prepare to depart land.

Spanish team saying goodbye to loved ones.

Spanish Telefonica Boat.

The castle keeps a watchful eye over the race village.

As the boats prepared to leave the docks, there was fan fare and ceremonies, and all the boats left one by one to music and fireworks.

Spanish boat pulling away.

China's boat.

Puma Ocean Race- Team U.S.

Team U.S.

Of course, one of my favorite parts of the day was getting to check of one tiny, little goal I had when coming to Spain, getting to see the Crown Prince of Spain. I of course had heard he would be at the ceremony and was set on getting to see him, and with a little persistence, I got a pretty good look at Prince Felipe as he set sail on the Spanish team boat. The Prince was on the sailing team for Spain in the 92 Olympics, so he knows his way around boats pretty well. I have to say, he definitely made it worth braving the wind and chill!

I thought this was the best view I would get of the Prince, but I didn't give up hope!

In the center talking with members of the Spanish team.

Taking a group photo on the Spanish boat.

Standing there looking all princely.

Setting sail with the Spanish Team.

Just another exciting adventure in Alicante!