ANY Jack Tar worth their salt would be impressed with Volvo's latest special edition.
It's the XC90 Ocean Race decked out to mark Volvo's involvement with a round-the-world nautical extravaganza.
Finished in a deep blue pearlescent paint which is as exotic as any ocean is deep, this XC90 is at the head of the fleet.
The effect is emphasised with brushed aluminium running boards and roof rails.
Shiver me timbers - this is a classy machine but the sea is cruel and you could also say the XC90 is the closest you can get to a yachting simulator.
Time has not been kind to the XC90 and in the four years it has been on the market it has been overtaken in terms of ride.
This is a big car and it wallows around in bends. Rivals such as the BMW X5 and Land Rover Discovery now have improved suspensions and deliver much more taut rides.
Nevertheless there are many features which still make the XC90 worthy. Its safety systems, with airbag protection all round and roll stability control, are class leading.
It can also seat seven with the rear seats big enough to take adults - and simple to fold away when not in use.
Powered by Volvo's D5 diesel engine, the XC90 has a fair turn of speed but it is best as a cruiser.
However, Volvo's claimed average fuel consumption figure of 31.4mpg proves a little optimistic and I could manage only 27 to the gallon.
Inside, the Ocean Race XC90 is set off with bespoke leather upholstery and top class fixtures including DVD screens and individual ventilation for the rear passengers.
As with any Volvo the cabin is spacious and comfortable but I have to take issue with two aspects.
The first is the satellite navigation which is operated by controls mounted on the back of the steering wheel and not as user friendly as it could be.
The second is the foot operated parking brake which not only comes off with such a bang you could think it was a 12 o'clock maroon but the release lever is very close to the switch for the rear fog lamp.
On more than one occasion this was illuminated by accident as the brake was released. Such layout blunders are not at all characteristic of Volvo.
Yet pound for pound the Ocean Race special edition is very competitive. At £36,125 it is as well equipped as a class leading Range Rover - and some £20,000 cheaper.
With such individuality this limited production run will remain exclusive - but I'm afraid it is becoming a bit of an old sea dog.
FAST FACTS
Volvo XC90 D5 SE Ocean Race
Price: £36,125
Mechanical: 185bhp, 2,401cc, 5cyl diesel engine driving all four wheels via 6spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 118mph
0-62mph: 11.5 secs
Combined mpg: 31.4
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 239g/km
BiK rating: 34%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 8yrs anti-rust