South Coast Exploration Voyage
Young people aged 16–25 took on the South Coast Exploration Voyage, setting sail for an adventure around the Isle of Wight and the south coast. From their first steps aboard and learning essential sailing skills, to swimming off the boat, sailing through the Needles and enjoying plenty of time together on deck, the crew made the most of every day.
There were new skills to master, spectacular coastal views to enjoy, plenty of good food and, of course, a few memorable moments along the way. Here’s their voyage, told in their own words.
Day 1
To start the day off, we toured the boat. We chose our bunks and were briefed on the deck and living space.
We were then equipped with sailing gear, including life jackets and waterproofs.
Then we left the harbour and almost fell off the boat (but stayed on board!)
When we were a bit further away, we practised a man-overboard drill and learnt how to fasten winches. Lastly, we learnt how to hoist the sails.
At the end of the day, we docked at Cowes, where we showered and chilled out. For dinner, we cooked fajitas and then played a couple of games of Dobble before heading off to bed.
Day 2
I AWOKE TO THE SOUND OF DRAMATIC MUSICAL CACOPHONY BROADCASTED ABOARD CHALLENGER 5.
We cheffed up delicious sausages and baked beans with a side of toast and cereal, then we got to go back to bed under a ginormous sail that we folded neatly into its bag.
We then proceeded to sail through the Needles, whilst making sure to take plenty of photos. We also saw the lighthouse at the edge of the cliff, Hurst Castle and the gorgeous views of the coastline.
We learnt to gybe, tie knots and put the spinnaker pole up. The snacks eaten today were delicious.
After docking at Poole, we cooked an exquisite bolognese with pasta that everyone enjoyed.
Day 3
We left Poole and sailed to Old Harry Rocks, where we anchored and went swimming for a lovely hour filled with jumping off the boat and competing in random competitions.
After this, we prepared lunch, which was halloumi and falafel wraps.
We then motor-boated to Alum Bay, located by the Needles, as we could not go into Lymington due to the tide until 7. After 7, we arrived and moored up to the pontoon and ended the day with teriyaki chicken noodles.
Day 4
In the early hours of the morning (6:15), we rose from our slumber to prepare breakfast for the fourth day, which happened to be bacon bagels, charred to perfection.
For the first half hour, our watch rigged the deck to go sailing whilst Ed got himself locked outside the marina.
After these events, the entire crew was summoned to the deck for the next hour of sailing. Once the hour had concluded, our watch had a four-hour break, which only ended up being two hours as we all got bored and sleeping was no longer an option for the time being.
During this, we sailed clockwise around the Isle of Wight and took in the splendiferous views.
We then swapped with the other watch, and it was their turn to have a break.
We sailed to Cowes, moored up and had an entertaining deck pack-away.
