Posts in category: Enrichment

In October 2025 we took eight incredible young people stepped aboard a Tall Ships vessel and sailed into an experience that none will forget. From the first safety brief to the final dock lines, they learned to helm, hoist, navigate, cook for the crew, and most importantly, trust themselves and each other. The smiles at the finish said it all: “I did that.”

We’ve captured the journey in tons of photos and video, from sunrise sails to belly-laugh dinners, so you can feel the wind and the buzz right alongside them. We also asked everyone to complete pre- and post-surveys to measure confidence, teamwork, resilience, and sense of belonging. We have publish those impact results on this page so you can see the growth in their own words and numbers.

“I didn’t know I could do things like this. Now I want to do more.” — Participant, age 14

What changed out there

• Confidence: Young people took the helm, literally, and discovered they can lead.

• Teamwork: Lines aren’t lifted alone; neither are goals. They learned to rely on one another.

• Resilience: Early starts, real responsibility, and big seas built grit in the best way.

• Belonging: Eight individuals returned as one crew.

A mentor who goes the extra mile (and nautical mile)

A huge shout-out to Simeon, one of Youth Unity’s dedicated mentors. He knew some of the young people already and met others for the first time on deck but by day two he’d turned a boatload of strangers into a crew. Simeon volunteered an entire week out of a packed schedule because his passion for young people is real. We’re certain the crew will remember his energy, humour, and steady guidance for a long time.

Thank you to the people who made it possible

We are profoundly grateful to Tall Ships for opening up the world of sail training and leadership to our young people, and to ORSEL for sponsoring the voyage. Your belief in this experience created a safe, challenging, unforgettable week that will ripple through school, home, and community long after the boat is moored.

What’s next

This voyage proved what we already felt: experiences like this change trajectories. We’re committed to sharing the full story, photos, videos, and survey impact, right here. And we truly hope to continue this experience year on year, reaching more young people with the same mix of challenge, joy, and growth.

Want a taste?

• Check out the photo & video gallery.

• Read the impact snapshot from our pre/post surveys.

• Follow Youth Unity for updates about next year’s voyage.

Thank you, Tall Ships Youth Trust and your amazing team. Thank you, ORSEL. And to your brilliant crew: you showed up, you worked hard, and you sailed your hearts out.