When I arrived, I felt very nervous about being on a boat at sea, but Skipper Sue, Mate Josh and the team made sure I felt comfortable and helped me get over my fear of the sea. The whole team were very welcoming.

Throughout the day, we did numerous activities where everyone got involved, and the team were very patient with us while we were learning. We learnt loads of things about what life is like on a boat and all the risks that come with it. We were taught all the rules to make sure that everyone was kept safe.

I’m really looking forward to what tomorrow brings. I am really excited and no longer nervous.

Kaitlynn Thomas

I joined the sailing voyage as accompanying YMCA staff. I started my own sailing journey in 2021, and it has changed my life – it has been an incredible journey.

I so wanted our young people to have a wonderful sailing experience so that they too could experience transformative change like I did. Initially this morning, I felt nervous that this wouldn’t happen for some of the participants because this experience is so far out of their comfort zone. I am proud that they signed up and turned up!

I need not have worried at all. Sue, Josh, Dave and Mike have offered their knowledge and skills in such a calm and professional manner, which reassured everyone. I saw our young people overcome their fears, bond as a group, and soak up the knowledge and skills they were offered with great enthusiasm – all keen to have a go and participate.

It was just brilliant to see the smiles on their faces as they experienced genuine joy. Everyone is so excited for tomorrow… me too!

Clair Hobson

I signed myself up for a new, exciting and free experience with little expectation and many worries. We arrived after a long journey to a friendly, warm welcome on board and were shown around in two smaller groups. Instructions, rules, regulations, and any queries or worries were answered, and all necessary equipment was provided.

Initially, I was hesitant that it would be positive or exciting; however, we were soon proved wrong! They have everyone involved, no matter their lack of experience or confidence. Life jackets, waterproofs, sleeping areas and toilet facilities were all explained, and we were shown how to use everything correctly.

I had little confidence at first and was overwhelmed with the number of different names and pieces of equipment. However, they worked with us, never shouting or scolding, no matter how many times I asked for something to be explained or demonstrated again.

The food provided was tasty and well suited to individual needs and requests, with good-sized portions. There was plenty of teamwork and encouragement to work together.

There were smiles all day round, from 6am till 9pm, with people ready and raring for tomorrow’s excitement and challenges. We all had a blast, with no negative comments or frowns, even whilst we were put to work to help expand our knowledge and confidence in all areas of the boat.

10/10 views all day, very peaceful, with no arguing or issues. I cannot wait for this voyage to continue and hopefully open more opportunities in the future. So far, it has been great for all suitable ages, genders and health issues that have been presented.

Day 1 over and out! See u tomorrow x

Tamzin Palmer