The captain and crew of the Volvo Open 70 yacht “Mar Mostro” visited Miami this week in preparation for the upcoming 2011-12 Volvo Ocean Race.  The 39,000-mile race kicks off in Spain this October and will finish one leg in Miami the following May.  The “Mar Mostro” is the only American entry in the around-the-world race and Miami is the only North American stop.  Captain Ken Read and his crew of 10 were in Miami for a shakedown cruise in their new Puma-sponsored yacht. 

See the first day sail of “Mar Mostro” in this YouTube video.  You can find out more about the race on the Volvo Ocean Race website.

After Tortola and Anegada, Virgin Gorda is the third-largest largest of the British Virgin Islands.  The island’s name, which means “Fat Virgin” in Spanish, is said to have been bestowed by Christopher Columbus because the island resembles a plump woman lying in the water.  The Baths is one of the most popular attractions on Virgin Gorda.  This unique geological site, formed by volcanic activity, includes large granite boulders that are piled on the beach, creating a series of natural grottoes that open to the sea. 

The Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor is located just north of The Baths and the world-famous Bitter End Yacht Club is also nearby on Virgin Gorda.  Find out more about The Baths on Virgin Gorda on the British Virgin Islands website.