Introduction: The Science and Technology of Sailing (02:16)

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Tracy Edwards skippered the first all female crew in the Volvo Ocean Race. She refurbished the "Maiden" to make the global journey. Edwards discusses how technologically advanced vessels have become.

Yacht Engineering (04:03)

Edwards visits Maryland's Farr Yacht Design. Boat builders create yachts for speed and stability, keeping 50% of the weight in the wedge bulb. She travels to Newfoundland, observing tank testing of a scaled down model.

Crew Training (02:27)

Crews make quick decisions; teamwork keeps racers and vessels safe. Every Volvo Ocean Race sailor undergoes rigorous physical conditioning. Sport participants are passionate, risking lives in the journey.

Advanced Assembly (06:42)

Edwards travels to Green Marine Boatyard where Jason Carrington builds yacht hulls from Kevlar and foam core. He constructs Volvo Ocean Race boats using innovative processes. Internal storage and dwelling spaces are minimal and customized.

Racing Power (06:52)

Sails propel Volvo Ocean Race yachts. Edwards visits the University of Auckland Wind Tunnel, observing tests of small scale models. She travels to North Sails in Nevada where new technologies allow workers to form streamlined designs by layering plastic, Kevlar yarns, and resin.

Racing Edge (03:45)

Some Volvo Ocean Race participants build two boats to test and improve performance. Ed Baird asserts that such experiments result in substantial speed advantages. Small changes have great impact on times during the nine month competition.

Ocean Navigation (04:38)

Globally Positioned Satellites allow crews to navigate without plotting courses; all racing boats are equipped with receivers. Sailors propel vessels by zigzagging across wind flow; stronger gusts create faster speeds and harder work. Onboard nutritionists prepare high calorie meals from lightweight freeze dried supplies.

Sailing Clothes (06:39)

Nigel Musto analyzes clothing at a research laboratory. When body temperature drops, consciousness wanes, leading to fatal errors in decision making. Experts subject prototypes to the Burst Test and Shower Chamber. Volvo Ocean Race participants share injury and ailment experiences.

Volvo Ocean Race (06:57)

The race around the world is vigorous and crew members rely on each other for motivation; sailors recall dangerous experiences. Southern Ocean conditions are challenging and low visibility situations require skill, courage, and the latest technologies to navigate.

Credits: The Science and Technology of Sailing (00:22)

Credits: The Science and Technology of Sailing