Private Voyages

Windeward bound renowned for its youth sail training program

Would you like the benefits of a sail training experience for your students? Windeward bound offers voyages upwards of 5 days with an award winning sail training captain and a passionate crew.

A youth development sail training program offers numerous benefits that extend beyond simply learning how to sail. Here are some key advantages:

Personal Growth and Character Development: Sailing requires discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Participants learn to navigate challenges, manage risks, and develop self-confidence through mastering new skills and overcoming obstacles.

Leadership Skills: On a sailboat, roles are often assigned based on individual strengths and skills. Youth learn to take initiative, make decisions under pressure, and communicate effectively with team members, fostering leadership qualities that are applicable both on and off the water.

Teamwork and Collaboration: Sailing relies heavily on teamwork. Participants must work together to hoist sails, steer the boat, and navigate. They learn to trust each other, communicate clearly, and cooperate to achieve common goals.

Environmental Awareness: Sailing fosters a deep appreciation for the natural environment. Participants learn about wind patterns, tides, marine life, and the importance of preserving marine ecosystems. This awareness often translates into a sense of environmental stewardship and responsibility.

Physical Fitness and Well-being: Sailing requires physical exertion, such as pulling ropes and maneuvering sails, which promotes physical fitness and coordination. Spending time outdoors on the water also promotes mental well-being and reduces stress.

Resilience and Adaptability: Weather conditions on the water can change rapidly, requiring participants to adapt their strategies and plans accordingly. This fosters resilience and the ability to remain calm and focused in unpredictable situations.

Cultural and Social Awareness: Many sailing programs involve interaction with diverse groups of people, whether it's fellow participants, instructors, or individuals in ports of call. This exposure helps broaden cultural understanding and social skills.

Goal Setting and Achievement: Setting sail towards a destination and reaching it requires planning, perseverance, and determination. Youth learn to set achievable goals, break them down into manageable steps, and celebrate their accomplishments.

Career and Educational Opportunities: Sailing can open doors to careers in marine industries, such as sailing instruction, marine biology, maritime law, or naval architecture. It can also enhance college applications and scholarship opportunities, demonstrating a well-rounded skill set and personal development.

Life-Long Passion: Many participants develop a life-long love for sailing and the ocean. It becomes a hobby they can pursue throughout their lives, providing ongoing opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and personal growth.

Overall, youth development sail training programs offer a unique blend of adventure, skill-building, and personal development that can positively impact participants in various aspects of their lives.

“ Sailing on other vessels is an experience, but a voyage on Windeward Bound is life changing”- Australian Navy Cadets Flotilla Commander