Wellbeing shapes how people feel about themselves and their lives – their sense of worth, their outlook on the future and their ability to cope with everyday challenges. It is closely connected to mental health and includes feeling that life has meaning, that they belong and that their actions can make a difference.
An adventure at sea can create moments that strengthen these foundations. Being part of a crew gives young people a role that matters and successfully completing unfamiliar tasks can help unlock self-belief. With encouragement and time to reflect, they can begin to recognise what these experiences reveal about their own capabilities.
There is room for enjoyment and discovery too; laughing with new friends, watching dolphins alongside the boat or experiencing the expanse of a starlit sky. These moments can offer a fresh perspective, positive memories to draw on and new reasons to look forward.
Together, these experiences offer opportunities to feel more capable, valued and hopeful – building the capacity to thrive.
children and young people aged 8–25 in England had a probable mental disorder in 2023
of 17–25-year-olds in England with a probable mental disorder could not afford activities such as sport, days out or socialising with friends – three times the proportion among those unlikely to have a mental disorder.
In the UK reported the lowest average life satisfaction across 27 European countries compared
Good wellbeing supports how young people cope, connect and participate in everyday life. When wellbeing declines, it can signal that someone is struggling and, without appropriate support, may contribute to mental health problems.
Poor mental health and low life satisfaction can affect young people’s relationships, participation and outlook on the future. Yet access to experiences that offer connection, enjoyment and achievement is unequal. Financial barriers can put these opportunities out of reach, including for young people already struggling with their mental health.
Research also supports the potential benefits for disabled people. A 2024 systematic review found positive effects of adapted sailing activities on wellbeing and quality of life across a range of physical, developmental and mental health conditions.
Supporting wellbeing means creating opportunities for people to experience connection, achievement and purpose, and to develop a more hopeful view of their future. Sail training brings together elements reflected in the Five Ways to Wellbeing – connecting, being active, taking notice, learning and giving – through everyday life onboard.
“The biggest thing I have got from the experience is knowing I have it in me to go out and try to find a life that makes me excited to live it.”
Katie, Cirdan Sailing Trust, Voyage to Recovery
“The spark I once carried inside of me returned. I found a passion for sailing I didn’t know existed inside of me.”
Dylan, Cirdan Sailing Trust, Voyage to Recovery
Wellbeing can grow through experiences that change how young people see themselves, their place alongside others and the possibilities ahead.
Sailing together gives everyone opportunities to contribute. Whether steering the vessel, preparing a meal or supporting a crew-mate, young people can see that their actions matter to others. Staff members acknowledge these contributions, helping young people feel seen and valued.
Whether learning to navigate, climbing the mast or preparing a meal, mastering an unfamiliar task gives young people evidence of what they can do. Achievements that once seemed beyond them can help replace uncertainty with a growing belief in their own abilities.
Making new friends or finding enjoyment in an unfamiliar environment can help young people see that new experiences hold positive possibilities. These moments can give them powerful memories to draw on, and encourage a more hopeful outlook about what lies ahead.
A new interest or a moment of success can create the desire to do more. Young people may want to continue their sailing journey, feel inspired to try other new things or find renewed energy to work towards their next goal.
Choosing how to approach a task, suggesting an idea or taking on a responsibility, gives young people opportunities to influence life onboard. They can start to experience themselves as someone who can take initiative, make good decisions and act on their own goals.
Impact Review
Our 2026 Impact Review brings together research and member experiences to explore sail training’s contribution to wellbeing, including the importance of connection, self-belief and a sense of purpose.
Theory of Change
Genuine challenge, real responsibility and a shared community create opportunities for personal development. Our Theory of Change explores how the voyage environment, supported by experienced staff and opportunities for reflection, can help people discover what they can do.
If you commission or fund opportunities for young people or disabled people, talk to ASTO about supporting wellbeing through the sail training sector.
If you work with young people in a school, college or youth organisation, explore how sail training could complement your provision.
