INTERNATIONAL SAIL TRAINING VOYAGE ON BOARD SHABAB OMAN II, HOSTED BY THE ROYAL NAVY OF OMAN

In November 2025, 20 trainees from around the world embarked on a rare and unforgettable adventure. The 20 young people were selected out of more than 200 applicants to take part in a unique cultural and maritime experience.

Upon arrival in the Sultanate of Oman, the trainees were warmly welcomed by the crew of Shabab Oman II and quickly adapted to life at sea.

They were joined on the voyage by Phoebe Leach, a Sail Training International Youth Council representative, who served as an inspiring mentor throughout the voyage.

The first few days were filled with hands-on learning: mastering knots, chartwork lessons, climbing the masts to the second platforms, boat rides, ship tours and essential safety drills such as anchoring and man-overboard procedures. After participating in a historic fleet review, the trainees set sail on a four-day voyage from Muscat to the northern port of Khasab.

There, they immersed themselves in local culture, explored Khasab’s rich history, and enjoyed endless games of beach volleyball. While anchored, they honed seamanship skills – splicing ropes, attending fire safety lectures, mastering lines, setting sails and climbing even higher.

As friendships blossomed and teamwork strengthened, the group returned to Muscat for a deeper dive into Omani culture.

Representatives from Sail Training International had the privilege of travelling to Oman to join the trainees on completion of their sea voyage.

Upon arrival in Muscat, James George, Chair of Trustees, was delighted to renew the Oman Bursary Agreement with the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) for another five years. Accompanied by Vanessa Mori, Deputy CEO, Magda Makowska, Race Director, and Abi Haywood, Digital Marketing Executive, the team were warmly welcomed to the RNO Headquarters by Commodore Ali Al Hosni and Rear Admiral Saif bin Nasser Al Rahbi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman.

The visit to the RNO headquarters, was followed by a magical evening at the historic Al Mirani Fort, held in honour of the award of the 2025 Sultan Qaboos Trophy. During the ceremony the Sail Training International team was joined by representatives of the winners of the Sultan Qaboos 2025 Trophy: Tall Ships Aberdeen.

‘Aberdeen was chosen for this award because they embraced the values that sit at the heart of the Sultan Qaboos Trophy: youth development, international friendship, and a genuine commitment to opening the world of sail training to all. They showed what is possible when a Host Port leans fully into the purpose – not just the spectacle – of The Tall Ships Races.

For the first time since the trophy was established in 2011, it is being awarded to a Host Port team. A powerful message that when a city steps forward with vision, partnership, and heart, extraordinary things can happen.

To our friends and colleagues from Aberdeen – you set a new benchmark. Your work changed lives. You honoured the values of His late Majesty (Sultan Qaboos). And you reminded all of us what sail training is truly about.’

– James George, Chair of Trustees of Sail Training International

The trophy was presented by His Highness Sayyid Harib Bin Thuwaini Al Said and was followed by a sumptuous banquet.

The adventure didn’t end there. After celebrations in Muscat, the group travelled to Nizwa, where they explored the famous Friday souq, visited Nizwa Fort, sampled traditional Omani cuisine, and even stargazed under the starry sky.

It was heartwarming to see just how powerful the impact of the experience had been on all participants and when the team caught up with them here is what they said:

“A once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
“I learned so much – sailing is very different from ship to ship.”
“I’ve never been more happy that I did this.”
“I’m extremely glad I did this.”
“The best thing was sharing time and this experience with these people from around
the world.”
“Just do it! That’s what I did, and it has changed my life forever!”
“The best part of the whole adventure? It’s so hard to answer! The sailing was really
cool. I think I’ve made friends for life and I hope to sail with them again.”
“It’s always special to be in an international community, getting to know so many
people from different countries!”