After their impressive demolition of the 24-hour speed record, when they fell just short of a 700-mile day, the crew of Maiden 2 expect to arrive at Ocean Village, Southampton, sometime late tomorrow or Thursday.

To get the record, the big catamaran was driven hard over rocky seas and took several nosedives at 35 knots, and the crew say they are nursing some injuries: bad backs, smashed knees and feet and assorted bruises.

They are exhilarated by their success, however. “The best 24 hours I have ever spent! An absolutely unbelievable experience that I will never forget, to be the fastest boat, with the fastest and the most fantastic crew and team work to pull this off is the most rewarding price any person could ever want,” said Helena Darvelid, the elated co-skipper.

Rough and fast conditions continued after the record was set, but they are petering out as Maiden 2 reaches the ridge of high pressure stretching over the UK.

Southampton is to be Maiden’s home port this summer, and this will be the first time the boat has been in the UK.