We started our journey at Chippenham and then got a 1 stop train to bath, there we changed over onto a train to Portsmouth harbour picking up other along the way.

It was a 3-hour journey from Bath with there being no delays meaning we arrived in Portsmouth with plenty of time.

This meant we had 30 minutes to explore Gunwharf Quays which had loads of shops and food outlets (and toilets!).

We then were divided into two separate groups one for each boat and meet the crew on each having a short introduction and a chance to socialise. After we meet the crew, we had tours of both the deck and the living quarters/Saloon being introduced to our bed areas and where to find specific equipment.

On each of our beds we had a designated life jacket that we were shown how to fit and use in case of emergency.

The channel leaving Portsmouth was extremely busy however we managed to find and gap and departed on our journey (lead by Ed who was at the helm). It wasn’t a very long journey to Cowes so no need to put up the sail however we did setup the genoa and jib sail just in case the engine cut out.

We smoothly arrived in Cowes after a gentle journey out of the channel and towards the isle of wight. The harbour is extremely busy however we have a good spot where we are docked up and soon after challenger 4 arrived.

The sails were packed away and line were tightened to secure us top the dock. It was then a short debrief and time to relax for half an hour until it was Ports duty (Elliot, Lydia, Jaylen, Ed and Jess) to cook food. The Fajitas were delicious!

Thanks to Derrick strong sailing skills and Joshes leadership skills it was a smooth and efficient journey. We are now writing this blog whilst Starboard team are cleaning up the galley after the meal. It’s been an amazing day with everyone raring to go tomorrow.

By Elliot and Ed

Today we had a later start as we had to plan our food menu, working as a team and then get provisions.

At around 11, and once at sea we hauled up the Yankee and the staysail. We had to work hard, as every time we turned, we had to pull in and release the sheets, this was difficult as we had to fight the wind and time it right.

We had hot baguettes for lunch which was nice because of how cold it was though it was difficult as we had to keep tacking and the waves splashed over the deck. We were happy to wear our waterproofs, so we didn’t get wet from all the waves.

When we were approaching shore, we lowered the sails which was a lot of hard work as we had to pull them in against the wind. We had to bring out the fenders and use a clove hitch and round turn and two half hitch knots to secure them.

We had to do a 180 degree turn to park the boat then secure the boat to the pontoon with mooring lines for the night.

Once we had a debrief, we were allowed to go for a walk around the marina. Once we were back we started cooking a delicious chicken curry and naan with rice we had fun preparing the food as we are all good friends and sang songs whilst cooking.

Holly, Poppy, Ben, Lewis & Katy