Youngsters set to sail into Greenock after navigating UK on iconic challenger yacht

Ten youngsters have found their sea legs aboard one of the country’s most iconic racing yachts as part of a charity challenge.

The group is set to disembark from the 72ft Challenger yacht in Greenock after sailing round the UK from Whitehaven in Cumbria on legs four and five of the Naval Children’s Charity (NCC) Round Britain Adventure.

The Challenger Four vessel previously competed in Global Challenge Races, sailing round testing waters in the Southern Ocean.

It is the first time the challenge, in conjunction with the Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT), has taken place since 2019 due to the coronavirus pandemic

James Hudson, Director of Fundraising and Marketing at TSYT, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with NCC for these voyages, which will be an exciting and challenging opportunity for the youth crews involved.

The Challenger yacht was previously used during round-the-world races. (Image: TSYT)

“Working together onboard, the crew take part in all activities and pull together to overcome common challenges, such as preparing to sail in bad weather and living in close quarters. This helps develop transferrable life skills such as communication, resilience and teamwork.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming these two groups and further young people from the charity over the coming years as we build our partnership.”

The youngsters are split into two age groups, with the 12-15 bracket arriving in Greenock on Sunday.

A second team of those aged between 16 and 25 will leave from the town on Wednesday before arriving in Peterhead on August 31.

All those taking part receive a recognised qualification from the Royal Yachting Association.

Clare Scherer, from the NCC, added: “We are delighted to be able to offer this opportunity to our young people. The combination of the extraordinary experience onboard the iconic Challenger yacht, learning to sail and gaining their RYA certificate, combined with meeting and bonding with other young people from naval families with shared experiences, will really enhance their lives.

“We hope that this experience will give them insight into the opportunities and experiences out there in the world for them and we are proud to offer this life chance to our Naval children”