Day Sail with Tall Ships Trust

Based at Gunwharf Quays, the Tall Ships Youth Trust (https://tallships.org/) is the UK's oldest and largest youth development and outdoor learning charity. Their voyages are primarily to enable young people to change their lives at sea, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. However, the Trust also offers trips to enable adults to enjoy the experience of big boat sailing.

The Trust has four 72ft Challenger yachts. These were built in 2000 and are famous for having raced twice round the world in the Global Challenge races of 2000/1 and 2004/5. They now provide an exciting and safe environment for sail training.On 3 June a "Tuesday Talk" about the TYST was given by Sue Geary, one of the Trust's skippers. This was arranged by Viv Rance who has enjoyed several trips on board a Challenger yacht with the Trust and would thoroughly recommend both the trips and the organisation. Following the talk, there was a lot of interest in a day sail on one of the Trust's Challenger yachts for members of Seafarers and their friends.

Judi Thurlby (pictured above), is a member of Seafarers and a volunteer watch leader on the Challenger yachts. She established that the Trust could offer a day sail in October for up to twelve people aged between 12 and 80.

Twelve members have signed up for the Day Sail via WebCollect (here). As other members have shown serious interest, a "Waiting List" has been set up. This might lead to another voyage being organised at a date in the future. If you are interested in sailing with the Tall Ships Youth Trust on 9 October or at some time in the future, please contact Viv Rance, our Social Secretary.

Outline arrangements for those sailing on 9 October are as follows:

• Cost: £115 per person
• Approximate timing: 08:30 to 16:30
• Activities: You will be encouraged to learn how to sail the boat - raise and lower the sails, steering, winding the winches to trim the sails, and the catering.
• Catering: Lunch will be provided comprising (typically) a baguette, or pasty and beans, or jacket potato. There may be tea and cake in the afternoon. The group is usually involved in preparing and clearing up after lunch, which is eaten on deck under sail.
• Dress: Casual day clothes, strong trainer shoes or boots but they may get wet. Waterproof jacket and over-trousers will be supplied on board, together with lifejackets with integral harnesses.

Last updated 11:33am on 3 August 2025