A group of Scouts and Explorers from the 6th Gainsborough Sea Scouts enjoyed a weekend at sea with Adventures Offshore, where they had the chance to try their hands at sailing a yacht. Under the guidance of a patient skipper and first mate, the young people learned all aspects of life afloat, from helming and managing sails to practising ‘man overboard’ drills and navigation, as well as preparing, cooking and eating meals on board.
Once shown how to log a vessel’s progress, the Scouts and Explorers took the initiative, setting their own hourly reminders and working together to record the yacht’s voyage – putting into practice the skills they had learned. Sailing and living in close quarters for an extended period helped develop teamwork and social skills, with participants quickly forgetting about electronic devices as they focused on the tasks in hand. The group of eight young people set sail from Ipswich, experiencing life on the coast, sleeping at anchor in a river, cooking meals on a moving vessel, and learning valuable lessons about sailing, navigation, teamwork and themselves. It was an experience that will stay with them forever.
Young people aged 10 to 17 who are interested in similar opportunities can contact
join@gainsboroughscouts.org.uk to find out what Scouting has to offer.
Adult volunteers are also welcome. Anyone interested in helping to organise sailing trips and other adventurous activities for young people is encouraged to get in touch and join one of the fantastic groups based in Gainsborough and the surrounding area.