About Cirdan Sailing Trust
The Cirdan Sailing Trust is a non-profit organization that has been providing life-changing experiences to young people for over 30 years. The trust specializes in enabling groups of young people, particularly those who are disadvantaged, to experience the challenge and adventure of life at sea on large sailing vessels.
The trust was founded in 1983 by a group of sailing enthusiasts who wanted to share their passion for the sea with young people. Since then, it has grown into one of the UK's leading sail training organizations, with a fleet of four vessels and an experienced team of staff and volunteers.
One of the key aims of the Cirdan Sailing Trust is to provide opportunities for young people who might not otherwise have access to such experiences. This includes those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as well as those with disabilities or other special needs. The trust believes that everyone should have the chance to experience the thrill and challenge of sailing on open water.
The trust's flagship vessel is called Faramir, a 72-foot ketch-rigged yacht that can accommodate up to 16 trainees plus crew. Faramir has sailed all over Europe and beyond, taking part in races and regattas as well as providing sail training voyages for groups from schools, youth clubs, charities and other organizations.
In addition to Faramir, the Cirdan Sailing Trust also operates three smaller vessels: Prolific (a 65-foot ketch), John Laing (a 61-foot Bermudian sloop) and James Cook (a 54-foot gaff cutter). Each vessel has its own unique character and history but all are fully equipped for safe offshore sailing.
The trust offers a range of sail training courses tailored to different age groups and abilities. These include weekend taster sessions for beginners aged eight upwards; five-day voyages aimed at teenagers aged 14-18; longer expeditions lasting up to two weeks; Duke Of Edinburgh Gold Residential trips; RYA Competent Crew courses; RYA Day Skipper courses; RYA Coastal Skipper courses & Yachtmaster Offshore preparation weeks.
All trainees receive expert tuition from qualified instructors who are passionate about sharing their love of sailing with others. They learn how to handle sails, navigate using charts & electronic equipment like GPS & radar , steer using compasses & autopilots , cook meals onboard , keep watch during night passages etc . They also develop teamwork skills as they work together towards common goals such as hoisting sails or navigating tricky waters.
But sail training isn't just about learning practical skills - it's also about personal development. Many trainees report feeling more confident after completing a voyage with Cirdan Sailing Trust . They learn how to work effectively in teams under pressure ; they gain resilience through facing challenges like rough weather or seasickness ; they develop leadership skills by taking on responsibilities onboard ; they make new friends from different backgrounds etc .
Overall , The Cirdan Sailing Trust provides an unforgettable experience that can change lives forever . By giving young people access to this unique form of adventure education , it helps them grow into confident , capable individuals ready for whatever challenges lie ahead .