Monohull vs multihull

It's one week since the Volvo Ocean Race announced that there would be a new, One Design boat after the next edition of the race, which begins on 22 October 2017.

Not only that, but we also revealed the lead designer of the next generation boat – Guillaume Verdier.

The Frenchman has carved out a world-class reputation at the forefront of racing yacht design having worked on some of the most innovative boats in recent years including the Vendée Globe IMOCA Open 60s, Comanche and Team NZ's America's Cup boat.

Monohull or multihull? That's a big question!

Mark Turner - Volvo Ocean Race CEO

Well, it is a big question – so, naturally, we decided to do a fan poll on Twitter. Here's the result...

Some fans felt passionately that the race should keep a monohull identity it has held since it began nearly over four decades ago in 1973...

...whereas others were interested to see if a multihull could make it around the world, being pushed by relentless Volvo Ocean Race sailors

...and one admitted they'd like to see change for the future. (props to Madalin for bucking the trend!)

As for Guillaume, well, in an interview with volvooceanrace.com, he admits that there are benefits to both designs – but from a technical design point of view, a multihull could be interesting...

It’s a big challenge to design a machine that is extraordinary to sail but safe at the same time

Guillaume Verdier

So what will the final decision be? Well, all will be revealed – but you'll have to wait until 18 May to find out.

Then, the design of the next generation boat will be announced, along with several other major evolutions which make the most radical shake up of the event's history.

And the best bit? You'll be able to watch the announcement as it happens, on a Facebook Live stream! Stay tuned for more details.