Young Endeavour Youth Scheme Top Sail Trainer

The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme has been acknowledged as the world-leader in sail training, receiving the Sail Training Organisation of the Year award. It was awarded by Sail Training International and announced at a prestigious ceremony in Liverpool, England.

The award recognises innovation and best practice in sail training for young people. The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme runs a dynamic and unique development program onboard the tall ship, Young Endeavour, for youth aged 16 to 23. Over 20 voyages are conducted each year by the not-for-profit organisation in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy.

‘It is a great honour to be selected from sail training organisations throughout the world and to receive this award,’ says Mr Stephen Moss, Executive Director of the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme. 'The award acknowledges the positive impact that the sail training program on Young Endeavour has made on so many young Australians.' The ship was purpose-built for sail training and was the United Kingdom’s Bicentennial gift to Australia in 1988. More than 9500 young Australians have sailed onboard over the past 20 years.

Over the course of an 11-day voyage, 24 youth crew learn all aspects of sailing a 44 metre square rigged tall ship including climbing the 30 metre mast, setting and furling sails, navigating, keeping watch and taking the helm. It is a challenging experience designed to push youth outside their comfort zone, develop skills in teamwork, leadership and communication, greater self confidence and a sense of community responsibility. For so many young people, a voyage on Young Endeavour is a life changing experience,' says Captain of Young Endeavour, Commander Chris Galloway. 'This award recognises the importance of Young Endeavour to Australians and that the program is acknowledged as a world leader in the international sail training arena.'

The Young Endeavour is operated by a Royal Australian Navy crew who are highly skilled and dedicated to ensuring youth get the most benefit possible out of the development program. Youth travel from all over Australia to take part in Young Endeavour voyages, which sail along the east coast of Australia, as far north as Cairns, south to Tasmania and across to Adelaide.

For more information and bookings, email Maritime World or, if in Australia, telephone mobile 0402 160 269 or 02 4960 8415. Overseas callers dial 61 2 4960 8415.