The UK Sail Training fleet is made up of a diverse range of vessels from large square rigged ships to powerful round-the-world yachts. So, whatever your dream, you are sure to find one to suit you. As a member of the crew you will actively take part in almost every aspect of the running of the vessel from setting sails to steering, watch-keeping to cooking; you and your team will have an important role to play.
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There are several bursary schemes providing support for Sail Training voyages, ensuring that this valuable experience is available to everyone. All UK Sail Training operators are 'not-for-profit' organisations and most operate their own bursary scheme. These schemes will vary and details and up-to-date information should be obtained by contacting the organisation you are interested in. See the links on the right for the full list of Member organisations.
Sources of funding to take part in a Sail Training voyage are:
Own fundraising - see the fundraising factsheet for some ideas
Oman Bursary
The Oman Bursary run by Sail Training International provides up to 500 Euro towards taking part in the Tall Ships Races, for young people aged 15 to 25. Priority is given to young people who have not sailed in Tall Ships Races before. You don't need to book a ship before you apply but if you are hoping to sail on a specific vessel do take a look at their availability and cost. A list of participating vessels is on www.sailonboard.com/event/tall-ships-races-2020/ Full details of the Oman Bursary are on www.sailtraininginternational.org/support/bursaries
James Myatt Trust
The James Myatt Trust exists to help young people aged between 16 and 25 to experience a Sail Training voyage. The voyage must be on a sailing vessel operated by ASTO. The voyages can last between 2 to 14 days.
The trust aims to help young people who really cannot raise enough money to secure a place on a voyage. Details on http://www.jmtrust.org.uk
How to apply for a James Myatt Trust grant
The James Myatt Trust need to know about you and your needs so please complete this application form. The James Myatt Trust do expect you to raise some of your own voyage money but hope to be able to help you. They are prepared to fund several individuals in a group if the need is there. Once you have filled in your application form, e-mail it to the Trust Secretary This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Royal Thames Yacht Club Charitable Trust
This charity, set up by members of the Royal Thames Yacht Club, provides funding for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who would not otherwise be able to afford the valuable experience of going to sea as part of a working crew. For further information visit www.rtyccharity.org
The Norfolk Boat
The Norfolk Boat offer financial help for off-shore Sail Training to young people (12-24) and disabled of any age, who are from Norfolk or the surrounding area. They only use ASTO sailing organisations and pay the organisation direct for the berth fees. The Norfolk Boat help approximately 180 people from the area to sail every year - they are predominantly disadvantaged and disaffected young people. If you live in the Norfolk area please see their Guide to Funding.
Funding for young people from Wales
Separate funding is available if you live in Wales. Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for details.
Local Rotary Clubs will often support Sail Training voyages, as will local Sailing and Yacht Clubs. Find out their details and contact them!
Find out about Sail Training opportunities
Adventure Under Sail (Pelican)
Boleh Trust
Cat Zero
Cirdan Sailing Trust
Combined Cadet Force (CCF)
Dauntseys School
Discovery Sailing Project
East Coast Sail Trust
Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust
Excelsior Trust
Gordonstoun School
Gwennili Trust
Island Trust
Jubilee Sailing Trust
Marine Society & Sea Cadets
Maybe Sailing
Ocean Youth Trust North
Ocean Youth Trust Scotland
Ocean Youth Trust South
Pioneer Sailing Trust
Portsmouth Sail Training Trust
Rona Sailing Project
RYA Sailability
Sailing Tectona
Sail Training International
Sea-Change Sailing Trust
Sea Sanctuary
Swan Trust
Tall Ships Youth Trust
UKSA