The Tall Ships Races Sunderland 2018

The Tall Ships Races Sunderland 2018

Sail Training

It’s an adventure!
It’s life changing!
It’s hard work!
It’s fun!

The Tall Ships are coming to Sunderland and with them comes the opportunity for local people to get on-board and experience the adventure of a life-time and sail on a Tall Ship from Sunderland to Esbjerg in Denmark. You will receive a warm welcome in Esbjerg and take part in a four day festival as part of your ships’ crew – enjoying amongst other things a crew party, a crew parade and plenty of sightseeing.

A voyage from Sunderland to Esbjerg will cost from £600 to £1500 depending on the ship you sail on.

You can either pay for the voyage yourself, look to pay for the voyage via fundraising activities or alternatively funding is available to pay for a limited number of ship berths and flights home if you can’t pay yourself.

What Is Sail Training?

An exciting, rewarding and fun outdoor sailing adventure for anyone aged 15 years old and above

Experiencing hands-on sailing and being at sea, learning about every role on board

Working as part of an inclusive and enthusiastic team, made up from people of all ages, nationalities and abilities

Having a unique experience depending on the type of vessel and part of the world you choose. For example, sailing on board a large Class A vessel can be like stepping back in time… and you’ll quickly get over your fear of heights. While joining the crew of a smaller Class C or D vessel is often more intimate and exhilarating

Sailing on board a vessel that could be run by a charity, school, university, or private individual or company

Ultimately, sail training is a life-changing adventure

Who can do it?

Anyone can take part

There’s a vessel out there for everyone. It doesn’t matter how old you are, your experience or ability level, your religious beliefs, or your nationality

Some vessels have an upper age limit, some specialise in supporting people with physical or emotional disabilities, and many particularly welcome 16-25 year olds

You don’t need any experience to take part. The full-time crew will explain everything to you and give you the opportunity to try your hand at all aspects of sailing

People with experience are also welcome – you can help other trainees while you learn

You’ll be encouraged to get involved and make new friends. If you’re shy, sail training can be a great way to meet people and build your self-confidence

What will I do on board?
You’ll quickly become a valued crewmate and will soon feel like part of the team. You’ll get involved with every task on board, including:

Taking part in a watch, so that the vessel can run throughout the day and night. Don’t worry you won’t be on duty all the time. Each watch usually lasts between two to four hours

Hoisting sails

Climbing the mast

Navigating and steering the ship

Cleaning the decks and cooking in the galley

How do I apply for a sail trainee berth for The Tall Ships Races 2018 to sail from Sunderland?

Visit our event website at and follow the link to ‘Get Involved’

Click ‘Sail Trainees’ and ‘Apply’

Any enquiries email or call Joanne at the Project Office on 0191 561 5782

More Information

For more event information you can visit:

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