In the world of high-performance sailing, few experiences compare to the thrill of being aboard a Volvo 70. The LV Yachting team, alongside friends, family, colleagues and clients, recently had the privilege of a team-building day on the legendary racing yacht Green Dragon. Everyone on board got to experience the fun, the challenge, the excitement, the teamwork and the thrill of this incredible yacht.
The Adventure Begins
Our journey commenced at Hamble, where we were picked up by a RIB kindly provided by Richard, the owner of Belladonna – one of our race charter boats. The quick, windy and invigorating ride to Cowes set the tone for the day. The anticipation was palpable as we disembarked and caught our first glimpse of Green Dragon waiting for us on the dock. Also waiting at Cowes was the rest of our crew.
Meeting Green Dragon
Green Dragon, a Volvo 70 designed for extreme offshore racing, had recently been chartered through LV Yachting for this year’s Round the Island Race. This particular race saw some of the most challenging conditions in recent memory, with 50-knot winds. Green Dragon was built to endure and excel in such extremes.
The Days Briefing
Our boat captain provided a thorough briefing, focusing on the unique features of Green Dragon and the day’s sailing plan. Special attention was given to the ‘grinders’ – powerful winches operated by hand cranks, which are crucial for controlling the sails. Using a grinder is a physically demanding task, requiring coordinated effort from several people. The teamwork required to operate these was a fitting metaphor for the day’s goals!
Setting Sail
With the foils down, sails hoisted and canting the keel to windward we set out from Cowes, heading west down the Solent towards Hurst and the Needles. The brisk southwesterly wind necessitated a couple of large tacks and allowed everyone to experience the raw power and acceleration of the Volvo 70. As we passed landmarks like Gurnard and Newtown Creek, Green Dragon effortlessly reached speeds of 10-15 knots.
Lunch on the Move
Lunch was enjoyed on the move as we sailed. The dynamic environment added an extra layer of excitement to our meal. For those new to sailing, this was an eye-opener to the kind of multitasking that seasoned sailors take in their stride.
The Return Journey
As the afternoon progressed, we turned back towards Cowes, now with a following wind. This provided the perfect opportunity to experiment with the headsails and hoist the smallest A6 asymmetric spinnaker. The sight of the spinnaker and the sounds of the sheets trimming on and being eased out is always a highlight, showcasing Green Dragon’s racing pedigree.
A Day to Remember
The day was a resounding success for all involved. Seasoned sailors had the chance to test their skills on a world-class racing yacht, while novices got a taste of the adrenaline-fuelled world of high-performance sailing. Even those with prior experience on similar boats found new learning opportunities, watching the professional crew in action and gaining insights into Green Dragon’s unique characteristics and raw power.
Above all, the day was about teamwork, fun and the shared thrill of adventure. Everyone left with a sense of accomplishment and the satisfaction of having been part of something truly special. Sailing on Green Dragon was not just about the speed and the challenge; it was about the collective effort and the joy of being on the water together.
Conclusion
Team-building days often promise to bring people closer and build stronger bonds, but our day on Green Dragon delivered in spades. It was an experience that highlighted the essence of sailing: the perfect blend of skill, strength, strategy, and spirit. For the LV Yachting team and our guests, it was a day that will be remembered for years to come.
Contact LV Yachting for more details.
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