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 Moosk. 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.
Moosk
Moosk is a gaff yawl built in 1906 and listed on the National Historic Ships UK Register. Originally a gentleman’s cruiser, she is renowned for her seaworthiness, balance, and speed under sail. Restored and maintained with great care, she now provides the perfect training ground for young people and smaller groups to handle a traditional vessel safely and confidently. With space for eight guest berths, she offers a cosy, manageable environment where everyone gets fully involved. Her size makes her particularly well-suited for DofE expeditions and introductory RYA courses. Despite her age, Moosk regularly competes in Small and Tall Ships Races, showing just how capable she remains after more than a century afloat.
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.
About the centre
Mount Batten, Plymouth
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.
Devon, United Kingdom
From £1430
Devon, United Kingdom
From £1240
Devon, United Kingdom
From £600
Devon, United Kingdom
From £588
Devon, United Kingdom
From £1028
Devon, United Kingdom
From £396
Devon, United Kingdom
From £1650
Hampshire and Isle of Wight, United Kingdom
From £935
Hampshire and Isle of Wight, United Kingdom
From £930
