Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will name Team Philips, the world’s most technologically advanced racing yacht, in London on March 14, 2000.

Pete Goss, skipper of the revolutionary carbon fibre catamaran, which is in the final stages of construction in Totnes, Devon, hailed her involvement as “an unprecedented honour”.

He said: “This is the ultimate form of recognition. To have such an endorsement of our project is a source of the greatest possible pride. Her Majesty’s presence, on such a milestone occasion, rewards the efforts of the thousands of people who have contributed to our progress”.

The naming ceremony will immediately precede an attempt on the Jules Verne record, for the fastest non stop circumnavigation. It will form the centrepiece of a revised development programme.

The boat, 120 feet long and 70 feet wide, will now be launched from Baltic Wharf, on the River Dart in Totnes, on February 29. This will enable the twin masts to be fitted on site. Atlantic sea trials will begin within 72 hours.

The original launch date, January 12, will now feature a unique open day at the build site. Visitors will be able to meet Goss, his five fellow crew members, and team principles. They will be given a first hand insight into the complexities of a huge craft, capab