Self-Funded Trips (or over 25 yrs)
If you are ineligible for one of our placements, there are still plenty of opportunities to try sail training or get involved in adventures at sea onboard a tall ship. You can find a different adventure under sail and choose a ship that meets your needs.
There are many different ships that provide experiential learning at sea. These include everything from the magnificent traditionally rigged Class A’s right through to the more nimble, smaller Class D’s which includes modern racing yachts.
Ships can also have a percentage of trainees aged over 25 onboard for The Tall Ships Races and the larger ones may have more places available. Such places need to be self-funded and bookings made directly with your chosen ship. Like all independent travel, you will be responsible for your travel insurance and getting to and from your placement.
Fund your adventure:
Whether you’re planning to self-fund, fundraise towards your trip or apply for funding to become a sail trainee - there are some helpful sources of information below to help you towards your goals.
Find your adventure:
Sail On Board, delivered by Sail Training International, is a great place to start to find a voyage.
Windseeker offers availability with some ships across the whole Tall Ships Races series.
The Swan Trust:
What better way to try sail training, than through your local sail training vessel Swan! There are numerous ways you can get involved with coastal and ocean sailing through an action-packed annual diary of trips and tours. The Trust is always keen to hear from young people keen to volunteer as crew members.
Shetland's very own tall ship, Swan LK243 was built and launched in Shetland in 1900, Swan was one of the finest boats among the Scottish fishing fleet. Having survived two world wars and the threat of destruction, the ship has been authentically restored to her former glory for sail training. She regularly participates in The Tall Ships Races and traditional boat festivals.