The Volvo Ocean Race Fleet winner arrived here just seven days ago and the other six boats finished within 48 hours. That, in itself, was remarkable, but what has happened in the meantime is quite staggering.

All seven boats have had their rigs removed, taken out of the water, had their rudders and centerboards removed and their hulls polished on the outside, thoroughly cleaned and inspected inside. In addition, all electronic equipment has been checked, repaired and checked again before replacement, and then the rigs have been returned after a major overhaul and the boats re-launched to sit in a line in the V&A Harbour.

The pressure is on the shore and support crews to get the Volvo Ocean Racers checked, fixed and back in the water, ready for the InPort Race this coming weekend, and the start of Leg 2 on November 19.

Photo Credit © Ainhoa Sanchez / Volvo Ocean Race