Price
£275
Nights
Three
Age range
14-17
Start port
Portsmouth, UK
End port
Portsmouth, UK
Voyage code
CF826
Bursary
Available
Voyage highlights
A FIRST STEP INTO OCEAN RACING
This weekend is part of Tall Ships Youth Trust’s Youth Ocean Racing Pathway and is designed as an accessible introduction to big-boat racing. It bridges the gap between dinghy or small‑boat sailing and offshore racing, without requiring previous experience on large yachts.
Sailing onboard one of our iconic 72ft Challenger yachts – once raced around the world – you’ll discover what it’s like to race as part of a larger crew, where teamwork, communication and coordination matter as much as individual skill.
This voyage is ideal for young people who:
- Are curious about racing or ocean sailing
- Enjoy teamwork and friendly competition
- Want to try something new in a safe, supportive environment
- Are looking for a step‑up challenge without committing to a long voyage
You don’t need previous racing experience.
If you’re unsure whether this voyage is right for you, our team will be happy to help.
Friday: Arrival
Join the crew for dinner and enjoy a chilled evening while learning about the vessel’s safety features and getting to know everyone on board. Our TSYT crew will discuss everyone’s goals for the weekend and ascertain your sailing experience.
Saturday: Race Prep
Expect an early start as there is much to cover before you can race 72ft steel yacht! After breakfast, there will be a full safety briefing, followed by deck preparation where you will familiarise yourself with the layout and sails of a Challenge 72.
You will then head out into the Solent for an afternoon of sailing drills to help you work effectively as a team. Your TSYT crew will guide you through the key racing skills, including how to get a good start, helming, trimming sails for speed, and understanding race tactics.
You will moor for the evening in either Cowes or Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight. Over dinner, you can discuss your race day strategy and check the morning wind and tide conditions.
Sunday: Race in the Solent
Monday will be race day, beginning with an early mainsail hoist race, followed by a ‘Le Mans’ style race start. Expect plenty of manoeuvres and sail trimming throughout the race. After crossing the finish line, you will head to Cowes to secure the boat before enjoying well-deserved showers and dinner.
Monday: Race Back to Portsmouth
Enjoy a more relaxed start to the day before racing back to Portsmouth for a late lunch. The skippers may test your teamwork skills with headsail changes during the race, and you will have the opportunity to learn more about racing techniques and skills.
Before you wave goodbye, there will be a prize-giving where winners will receive TSYT-branded t-shirts and certificates.
By the end of the weekend, participants typically leave with:
- Increased confidence and self‑belief
- New racing and teamwork skills
- A clearer idea of whether ocean racing is right for them
- New friendships and shared memories
If you enjoy this racing weekend, you may be encouraged to progress further into the Youth Ocean Racing Pathway, take part in longer races or explore Empowerment and Leadership voyages.
There’s no obligation — this weekend stands alone as a brilliant experience.
This itinerary and the length/course of the race depend on weather conditions and may be subject to change. Alternative competitive activities may be included in the event of insufficient wind.
All meals are provided, and allergens/dietary requirements can be catered for.
We have bursaries available for this racing weekend to help support anyone who might need a little extra financial support to join. If you need support, we encourage you to apply and see if you qualify.
If you need help with booking online or want to talk about payment plans, please reach out to reservations@tallships.org.
