Charity seeks wounded veterans for sailing adventure
Sailing charity Turn to Starboard is looking for a team of wounded veterans for an ambitious 2,000-mile sailing expedition from Land’s End to John O’ Groats – and back.
This is a unique opportunity for 24 veterans who have been affected by military service, with physical injuries or mental trauma, to join the Cornish charity’s Long Way Up challenge for a one-way voyage in either direction.
This epic trip will see a fleet of three 40-foot yachts set sail from Land’s End on June 10, 2020. Crew members will spend around three weeks at sea navigating the west coast of mainland Britain while learning to sail under expert tuition from professional instructors.
“The aim of this exciting challenge is for wounded veterans to experience the therapeutic effects of sailing and the sea, meet people facing similar challenges as their own and gain valuable new skills,” says Shaun Pasco, Turn to Starboard CEO and founder. “Crew members can choose to either set sail from Land’s End or John O’Groats on a 1,000 nautical-mile trip and enjoy stunning views along Britain’s wild coastline. Each participant will get the chance to develop their sailing ability and skippering skills, learn about navigation, meteorology, safety and signals.
“The expedition will be a challenge too, as crew members will be tested at times with strong winds, waves and varying weather conditions. Yet they will be rewarded with spectacular scenery and the chance to visit some of the stunning remote islands off Scotland’s west coast. Skippers will break up the journey with stopover anchorages and at marinas for rest days and to use onshore facilities.”
Launched in 2012, Turn to Starboard offers several strands of activity including Royal Yachting Association (RYA) sailing courses, family sailing trips, Tall Ship sailing and competitive racing. The Falmouth-based charity has provided more than 3,000 sailing opportunities to injured veterans and their families. The focus is on resettlement, reintegration and reinforcing a sense of value and belonging for participants, along with an opportunity to gain professional sailing qualifications to start new careers in the marine industry.
“All places are provided free of charge and include three meals a day plus the loan of waterproof kit and safety lifejacket. Anyone who would like to apply will need at least one week’s yacht sailing experience, which may be able to be take place from our base at Falmouth in Cornwall before the expedition,” continues Shaun.
For more information or to apply for a place on the Long Way Up expedition, contact Helen on 01326 314262 or email helen@turntostarboard.co.uk.
