Teenagers looking for adventure at sea can join a 5 night sailing voyage filled with hands-on experiences, teamwork, and the chance to earn RYA qualifications. These trips are designed for ages 13–19 and take place during school holidays, offering an unforgettable mix of sailing, learning, and making friends. Voyages also count as a DofE Gold Residential, with professional staff guiding every step of the way.
Life on board is a blend of responsibility, teamwork, and fun. Each participant is part of the crew, helping with everything from hoisting sails and steering to learning about navigation and rowing ashore. Cooking meals and keeping the vessel clean are shared tasks, which give everyone a sense of independence and responsibility.
During the week, the group will explore the coast of south Devon and Cornwall, stopping at harbours, anchorages, and sometimes beaches for swimming, barbecues, or time ashore. Wildlife spotting is part of the experience, with regular sightings of dolphins and seabirds. Every voyage also follows the RYA cruising syllabus, giving you the chance to work towards qualifications such as RYA Start Yachting or Competent Crew.
Day 1 – Embark Plymouth Yacht Haven, safety briefing, sailing activity, evening meal, icebreaker session.
Day 2 – Morning sail, navigation lesson, afternoon sailing, evening review, free time ashore.
Day 3 – Sailing, knot-tying practice, afternoon sail, evening review, social time ashore.
Day 4 – Sailing, more knot work, evening planning for night sail, overnight watch rotation.
Day 5 – Day of sailing and instruction, evening review, relaxed group time.
Day 6 – Morning sail back to Plymouth, secure vessel, clean down, debrief, disembark.
All voyages begin and end in Plymouth, one of the UK’s most historic and lively maritime cities. From there, the group sets sail into the scenic waters of south Devon and Cornwall, with the route chosen based on the weather. Both areas are well known for their beautiful coastlines, hidden coves, and sheltered harbours, providing the perfect setting for learning to sail and enjoying time ashore.
In particularly good weather, there is sometimes the opportunity to sail further afield to the Isles of Scilly. This island group is home to sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed way of life, adding something extra special to the voyage. Whether staying close to shore or making longer passages, each trip promises plenty of variety and memorable experiences.
Accommodation is provided on board Johanna Lucretia. She is set up for group living, with comfortable bunks, shared spaces for meals, and room to relax after a day of sailing. The cabins are designed for young people to live together as a team, encouraging friendships and cooperation.
Meals are prepared and shared on board, with participants involved in cooking and cleaning as part of the crew experience. Living on the boat is a big part of the adventure, giving everyone a sense of independence and responsibility. It’s also a chance to learn what life is like at sea, from early starts to nights spent anchored in a quiet bay.
Johanna Lucretia
Johanna Lucretia is a UK-flagged topsail schooner used for sail training. With her traditional rig, wide decks, and spacious living quarters, she provides a memorable sailing experience for groups of young people. Her two masts and variety of sails give plenty of opportunity for hands-on learning, with something for everyone to do on deck. Built in 1945, she has a colourful history that includes film appearances, tall ship racing, and voyages across European waters. With 12 guest berths, a large galley, and flexible cabin layouts, she combines comfort with the practicalities of life at sea. For those sailing on her, it’s a chance to experience the unique feel of a traditional schooner while learning in a safe, supportive environment.
No previous sailing experience is needed to take part. Professional sailing staff provide full guidance, so complete beginners will feel supported and able to get stuck in from the very start.
Participants should bring enthusiasm, a willingness to try new things, and the ability to live and work as part of a team. Everything else, including safety equipment and waterproofs, is provided.
The centre is dedicated to giving young people opportunities that they may not otherwise have access to. For over 50 years, it has supported young people from all walks of life, especially those facing challenges, by using sailing as a tool to build confidence, social skills, and independence.
With experienced staff, historic vessels, and a strong focus on teamwork, these voyages offer far more than just sailing. Participants return home with new skills, lasting friendships, and often qualifications that can support future ambitions – whether that’s in sailing or beyond.
The voyages are designed for young people aged 13–19, with an emphasis on independence, teamwork, and learning new skills. They are suitable for complete beginners as well as those with some sailing experience.
Participants should be able to cope with being on a boat for several days, work as part of a team, and take part in day-to-day life aboard a sailing vessel. Young people with educational support needs or disabilities are welcome, with staff providing guidance and support throughout.
No previous experience is required. The professional crew provides full instruction in all aspects of sailing, including helming, navigation, and ropework.
Participants will gain confidence in every task, from basic sailing skills to teamwork responsibilities like cooking, cleaning, and watch duties. By the end of the week, most will feel competent handling a traditional vessel.
Voyages follow the RYA Cruising syllabus, giving participants the option to gain Start Yachting or Competent Crew certificates. These qualifications are recognised nationally and can be a stepping stone to further sailing opportunities.
Sailors keep a logbook of their hours and skills, which is useful for tracking progress and preparing for higher-level RYA courses. For those on a DofE Gold Residential, the voyage also counts towards the Residential requirement.
Sailing typically takes place along the south Devon and Cornwall coasts, with routes chosen based on the weather. Participants may visit hidden harbours, quiet bays, and small islands along the way.
In exceptional weather conditions, there may be the opportunity to sail further afield to the Isles of Scilly. The variety of locations allows for a mix of sailing, swimming, beach activities, and exploration.
Life on board involves actively participating in all aspects of the vessel’s running. Participants rotate tasks including steering, navigation, hoisting sails, cooking, cleaning, and rowing ashore.
Evenings are spent relaxing on deck, reviewing the day, or socialising with other crew members. The experience fosters independence, confidence, and teamwork in a supportive environment.
All voyages are supervised by qualified and experienced sailing instructors. Safety equipment, including lifejackets and waterproofs, is provided for every participant.
Staff provide clear guidance on all activities, including handling sails, navigation, and going ashore. Emergency procedures are briefed at the start, and crews maintain constant communication during the voyage.
Participants sleep in shared cabins with bunks appropriate to the size of the vessel. Bedding, including mattresses, is provided, but participants should bring a sleeping bag and pillow.
Vessels have shared living spaces for meals and socialising. All meals are included and are prepared either by staff or participants under supervision, creating a sense of shared responsibility.
Yes, voyages often include stops at beaches, coves, or harbours where participants can swim, explore, or have a barbecue. Time ashore is supervised, giving participants a safe chance to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
These stops provide a break from sailing while reinforcing teamwork and giving the crew a chance to experience the coastal environment, wildlife, and local culture.
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by The Island Trust, a partner of adventuro.
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