Museo Volvo Ocean Race

The Volvo Ocean Race Museum is the world's only museum dedicated entirely to the round-the-world Volvo Ocean Race, located right on the harbour front in Alicante.

The museum occupies the city's former maritime station on Muelle de Levante 10, a building restored specifically to house the exhibition and opened to the public in June 2012. Its existence is tied directly to the race's own history: in 2010 Alicante became the permanent starting port of the Volvo Ocean Race, and the event's organisation moved its headquarters here from Southampton in the UK. Since then, the city has been closely linked with what is widely considered the toughest sailing race in the world.

How do you get there?

The museum sits directly on the water, inside Alicante's commercial and marina port, within easy walking distance of the city centre and the Esplanade. It's simple to combine with a visit to the old town, Santa Bárbara Castle or Postiguet beach — everything lies within a fifteen-minute walk.

What will you see inside?

The exhibition spans 1,300 square metres across two floors. The ground floor holds a library area and the main exhibition space, showing photographs from past editions of the race alongside modern, interactive displays that walk visitors through the event's history. The biggest draw for many is the simulator, which lets you take the helm of a racing yacht under conditions modelled on real ocean racing.

The exhibition also includes an actual VO70-class boat, Brasil 1, which took part in the 2005–2006 edition of the race — one of the few boats of this class visitors can see up close on land. The museum additionally houses the Race Control Room, the space used to monitor the position and performance data of competing boats during an actual race, blending a display piece with genuine operational infrastructure.

Upstairs, next to a workshop area, there's a café with sea views that opens onto a large terrace overlooking the city, the marina and the Mediterranean — a good spot to pause partway through a visit to the port.

When should you go, and what does it cost?

Admission is free, and a guided tour costs a symbolic €1.50. The museum opens Tuesday to Thursday from 10am to 2pm, stays open longer on Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 6pm, and returns to 10am–2pm on Sundays and public holidays. A Friday or Saturday afternoon is the best bet if you want a longer, unhurried visit.

Who is it for?

The museum appeals to sailing enthusiasts and to travellers looking for something in Alicante beyond the beach and old town. Its hands-on character — the yacht simulator, genuine racing equipment, and a look into how the Race Control Room actually works — makes it a solid stop for families as much as for anyone interested in sport and maritime technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit the Volvo Ocean Race Museum? Entry to the exhibition is free. An optional guided tour costs €1.50 per person.

Where exactly is the museum located? In Alicante's former maritime station on Muelle de Levante 10, right next to the marina and a short walk from the city centre.

What is the museum's main attraction? A yacht-steering simulator and the VO70-class boat Brasil 1, which raced in the 2005–2006 edition. The Race Control Room is also open to visitors.

Is it worth combining with other sights in Alicante? Yes — the museum is within walking distance of the Esplanade, the old town and Santa Bárbara Castle, so it fits easily into a day spent exploring the port and city centre.