The Island Trust

Every year the Island Trust welcomes around 600 young people on board three heritage boats to experience the thrill of sailing in the waters off the maritime city of Plymouth. The majority of these young sailors come from disadvantaged backgrounds; others have physical disabilities or learning disabilities. As well as day sailing, the charity also offers 6-day residential sailing voyages where young people can learn more about sailing on these beautiful and historic boats.

Sailing is challenging at the best of times, and all the more so when aboard a heritage boat. Instead of depending on technology, young sailors learn to rely on teamwork, traditional sailing skills and their own judgement. These voyages help to instil a love of sailing and the sea, giving young people a tangible link to the UK’s maritime heritage and boosting their self-confidence and communication skills. Through sailing, young people learn about the employment opportunities in the maritime sector as well as the pressing need to protect the marine environment.

In January 2020, the Swire Charitable Trust awarded The Island Trust a grant of £8,000 towards the restoration of the smallest of the charity’s heritage boats, the 58ft gaff yawl named Moosk, so it can continue to inspire future generations of sailors.