Residential adventures at sea give young people opportunities to discover their strengths, recognise their own worth and see new possibilities for themselves.
Living and working as part of a crew, they experience what it means to cope, contribute, learn and lead. With support and encouragement, these experiences can build a belief in themselves that they carry long after the voyage, influencing how they approach relationships, learning, work and everyday life.
OYT Scotland
“It was incredible to see one of our shy, vulnerable and fragile young people suddenly come out of their shell and act as a mentor and guide to others.”
Group Leader - Tall Ships Youth Trust
Across ASTO’s member organisations, sail training activities support three connected areas of personal development.
“During the voyage I learnt some new things about myself which will be helpful for me today and into the future. I have built on my communication skills immensely and been given the opportunity to work as a team for 14 days solid. I realise the value of each member in the team and learnt how far kindness and fun can take you. These things will support my future aspiration of becoming a vet. My patience was tested and my resilience strengthened. New friendships will be lifelong and memories to treasure.”
Beneficiary, sailing with The Swan Trust
Excelsior Sailing Trust
Young people face significant pressures on their wellbeing, education and future prospects. At the same time, access to experiences that build connection, confidence and practical skills is unequal.
Helping people unlock their potential, feel agency over their future direction, and prove to themselves what they are capable of, can create an impact which lasts long after the voyage has been completed.
For those who feel isolated or struggle in traditional learning environments, an adventure at sea can offer a different setting in which to succeed.
ASTO’s member organisations work with young people and disabled people, creating opportunities to participate, contribute and explore what they can do.
ASTO Impact Review 2026
Our Impact Review brings together academic research, national context, sector activity data and stories from member organisations to examine the contribution sail training can make to people’s lives.
Explore the evidence behind the three impact areas and meet some of the people whose experiences bring it to life.
The experience itself matters. Young people encounter genuine challenge, take on real responsibility and become part of a shared community.
Experienced staff support their participation and encourage reflection, helping them recognise what their achievements reveal about their capabilities. Our Theory of Change explains how these discoveries can influence what people do next and contribute to longer-term outcomes.
If you work with young people in a school, college or youth organisation, explore how a residential adventure at sea could complement your provision.
If you commission or fund opportunities for young people or disabled people, talk to ASTO about supporting the sail training sector and extending its reach.
