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Supported Applications


Within this section of Sail On Board, you’ll find information on the best ways, as a welfare professional, to support the application of a trainee for sail training.

Our sail training adventures predominantly focus on our Tall Ships Races and Regattas, as well as endorsed events. However, there are also opportunities to take part in sail training throughout the year, thanks to our membership National Sail Training Organisations (NSTOs).

There are many target-based and benchmarked metrics available to measure the development of an individual in today’s society. Unfortunately, simply recording the apparent success or failure of an individual’s development against these arbitrary measurements doesn’t capture some of the vital attributes of a well-rounded person.

Social interaction, independence, confidence, self-management, and determination in the face of adversity are just a few examples of crucial, developed attributes that are not easily measureable. The work undertaken by Sail On Board and Sail Training International seeks to help develop these for trainees taking part in the sail training experience.

If you’d like help finding and booking your adventure – we’re here to help you every step of the way. Even if you haven’t quite decided on what you want to do, and where you want to go, we can guide you through the process. From finding an event and ships that’s right for you, to contacting a vessel, or finding out more about funding options.

“Your support has given our students the opportunity of seeing life away from their normal day-to-day lifestyle and the opportunities in life that are available. Can I thank you enough from a teacher who is trying to make a difference, to charity trust who clearly are making a difference.” – Mr Lloyd, Stoke Damerel Community College.

“I learnt so much about sailing and about myself. I feel so much happier since I came off the boat, my confidence is so much better and I don’t worry as much as I used to about doing activities outside of school with people I hardly know. ” – Ellesha, trainee from Ocean Youth Trust Scotland.

“One of these trips can change a person’s outlook on life, making them stronger, kinder, more considerate and an all-round better human being, this can only be down to the great work [sail training] does… ” – Cirdan Sailing Trust.

“Our residents enjoyed feeling that they were important and valued members of the crew. They rose to the challenges in a way that surprised us all, and have gained confidence as a result. The high regard for safety at all times… ensured that everyone felt relaxed and secure.” – Cirdan Sailing Trust.

“Sail training is one of the most effective tools in our repertoire for turning around some very challenging young people. An ocean going vessel gets trainees away from their day-to-day problems… and demonstrates very immediately the importance of teamwork, tolerance and respect for the natural environment. It is an extremely powerful way of building confidence, trust in others, self-esteem and responsibility… ” – Wheatsheaf Trust.

Are you interested in supporting an application to take part in sail training? You can do this in three ways.

  1. You can enter a trainee on their behalf by contacting a vessel directly.
  2. Contact your local NSTO, which will be able to help you find a suitable vessel for sail training.
  3. Identify any local operating vessels.