Price
£295
Nights
Two
Age range
16-25
Start port
Belfast
End port
Belfast
RYA
Start Yachting
Voyage code
EVO71
Bursary
Available
Voyage highlights
Curious about life at sea? This exciting three-day round-trip voyage from Belfast is the perfect chance to dip your toes into the world of sailing with little to no prior experience required.
Whether you’re a total beginner, a dinghy sailor looking to go bigger, or someone who just loves the outdoors, this is your chance to get on board and give sailing on a bigger vessel a proper go.
You’ll join the crew on one of our 72ft Challenger yachts, which were designed and built to race around the world against prevailing winds and currents.
Alongside our skilled sea staff and a crew of like-minded young people, you’ll become part of life on board. From getting the boat ready and hoisting sails to steering at the helm and learning the basics of navigation and weather forecasting. You’ll learn the ropes as you sail up to 150 nautical miles.
By the end of your voyage, you’ll have completed your RYA Start Yachting qualification — giving you a recognised foundation in sailing and a big confidence boost to match.
Yes, this taster voyage offers a fully immersive and hands-on experience. Expect a good balance of theory and practical learning, as well as unforgettable moments at sea.
Bursaries are available if you need support, simply apply.
Strangford Lough: A beautiful inlet near Belfast, perfect for a shorter sail with opportunities for wildlife spotting and exploring quaint villages.
Bangor: A coastal town close to Belfast, offering lovely marinas, parks, and historical sites.
Douglas, Isle of Man: Capital of the Isle of Man.
New skills. Increased confidence. New friendships. Lifelong memories.
You’ll build experience in the fundamentals of sailing, including steering, sail handling, ropework, onboard safety and crewing skills. You may also get to do some night sailing if conditions permit.
We divide the crew into two teams (watches) – traditionally, known as Port and Starboard. In your watches, you’ll take turns to be involved in all aspects of sailing the Challenger – from deck duties to cooking and cleaning.
Each crew member will receive a personal assessment covering their leadership, teamwork and communication skills— a great addition to your CV.
You’ll hopefully get the chance to complete the RYA Start Yachting course while you’re on board.
The RYA Start Yachting syllabus includes:
- Sea terms and parts of a boat, rigging and sails
- Sail handling
- Ropework
- Personal safety equipment
- Man overboard recovery
- Clothing and emergency equipment
- Rules of the ‘road’ (at sea)
The cost of your RYA Start Yachting certificate is included in the price.
RYA logbooks are available for purchase on board at a cost of £6 (Skippers are only able to take cash for this).
The Skipper will determine the final route depending on weather and other variables.
There’s a possibility you could be recommended by the Skipper to come back and volunteer as a Trainee Watch Leader for future Tall Ships Youth Trust voyages.
Meals on board are included.
