WHY YOUTH DEVELOPMENT SAIL TRAINING?

Joining a Youth Development Sail Training Voyage young people aged 14-18 will learn the skills to sail a square-rigged tall ship. They will keep watch and take the helm, help in the galley, learn to navigate using the ship’s charts and climb the 24-metre mast to set and furl the sails. They will learn how to work in a team and learn that teamwork and communication can overcome all obstacles. 

The ship will also drop anchor from time to time to allow for some fun activities at safe beaches. They will also discover that many of the lessons taught in the school curriculum have a practical application in the day to day life of a tall ship, enhancing what they have learn in the classroom, and providing a sense of positive reasoning as to why their studies have an importance. 

Each participant will be encouraged to pursue personal and team goals and challenges. By the end of each voyage they will have the skills and confidence to participate in programs and activities they never thought possible.

Tasmanian West Coast Student Ethan joined a youth development voyage in Strahan, he said "It taught me a lot about resilience, dedication, practical thinking and creativity... during the voyage constant changes and 'unknowns' are thrown at the trainees who must adapt and deal with the situation while learning new skills together.. I really loved the challenging aspect which helped me grow as a person and become more independent, responsible and confident." 

Sail training is about living, working and playing with people you haven't met before... becoming a member of a team...taking responsibility, giving and taking orders, pushing yourself physically and mentally. Being cold, wet, weary, perhaps sick, often frightened - and looking back on it as the most wonderful experience of your life! - Captain Geoff Rowarth

“Sailing on other vessels is an experience, but a voyage on the Windeward Bound is life changing”- Australian Navy Cadet Flotilla Commander, 2023

Our young sail trainees come from all parts of Tasmania, and no sailing experience is required. Windeward Bound is operated by a professional crew who ensure the highest standards of safety and care, and teach the sail trainees everything they need to know for life at sea. 

UPCOMING VOYAGES

Can’t see a voyage date that suits you below?
Click here to complete an expression of interest and we’ll keep you updated when new voyages are announced!