you may then be split into two teams or Watches. Don’t worry if you’re a bit nervous to start with – the chances are that this is a totally new experience for you so it’s bound to be a bit daunting at first. Your Afterguard will help you feel at ease and answer any questions you may have.

Being central to all of our voyages, one of the first things you will learn on board will be about safety. The Skipper will talk you through some important aspects of living on board such as the use of lifejackets, fire safety and keeping safe when working above and below decks. Decisions will then be made in consultation with the crew about where we will go during the voyage which are always subject to wind, tide and experience of those on board.

With up to fifteen people to feed, cooking dinner is next on the agenda. Don’t panic if you don’t know how to cook, you’ll be amazed at what skills you’ll pick up during your time on board! Meal times are important times of the day and we believe that learning how to cook well presented and punctual meals is all part of the learning experience. Please let us know in advance if you have any particular dietary requirements.

After a few preparations in the morning we’ll set off. You’ll be involved in every element of your voyage from helming and hoisting the sails, to the cooking and cleaning. Everyone will have a go at each task on board, working with the rest of the crew to get jobs done. Through this you’ll learn how to interact and work with others, learning one or two things about yourself along the way. Depending on the weather and where you go on your voyage, you may also have a chance to learn to row a dinghy or perhaps enjoy a BBQ ashore with the rest of your crew - every trip is different.

Before you know it the last day of the voyage arrives and we’re making our way back to Universal Marina. You’ll have made new friends or found out much more about the friends you came with, learnt many new skills and found out something new about yourself. There’ll be time to exchange contact details and take some last minute photos before it’s time to leave – but don’t worry, you can always come back for more!

By joining us on board you are taking part in a Sail Training voyage, a challenging and fun way to develop self-confidence and change lives. Due to the size of our yachts, there is lots to do and you and the rest of the crew will make it happen with the guidance and support from your Afterguard.