Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQs page. Here you’ll find helpful answers to common questions about sailing with The Island Trust, from what to expect on board to how our voyages and courses work. Whether you’re a young person, parent, teacher or group leader, this section is designed to give you a clear understanding of our programmes and help you prepare for your adventure at sea. If you have questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Do I need any sailing experience to sail with you?
Our trips are designed for beginners as well as those with some experience. You will be guided by professional, qualified sailing staff who will teach you everything you need to know, from steering (helming) and raising sails to navigation and teamwork on board.
Some more advanced voyages or expeditions may benefit from prior experience, but most of our sailing adventures are open to complete beginners.
What will I be eating on board and do you cater for any dietary requirements?
All meals on board are freshly prepared and designed to be hearty, nutritious, and suitable for an active sailing adventure. You can expect a variety of home-cooked dishes, with plenty of options to keep everyone well fuelled throughout the voyage.
We cater for a wide range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and halal upon request. We also cater for most allergies or intolerances. It is important that you let us know about any specific needs in advance so we can plan accordingly and make sure you are well looked after – dietary requirements is a question on our “details and consent form” which will be provided during the booking confirmation process.
If you have more complex dietary needs, feel free to get in touch with us before booking to discuss how we can best support you.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Your safety is our top priority, and you will always be wearing appropriate safety equipment, including a lifejacket when needed. Our experienced, qualified crew are trained to keep everyone safe on board and if necessary to support participants of all confidence levels in the water.
That said, being comfortable around water can be helpful and may help you feel more at ease during your trip.
If you (or your child) have any concerns about swimming ability, please let us know in advance so we can make sure the right support is in place.
What will I be doing on board your boats? Will I get involved in the sailing?
Everyone on board gets hands-on and takes part in all aspects of running the boat. This can include steering (helming), raising and lowering sails, navigating, keeping watch, cooking meals, and even helping keep the boat clean and tidy. You will be learning as you go, with guidance from experienced, professional crew – no previous sailing experience is needed.
It’s a real team experience where everyone works together, builds confidence, and develops new skills while exploring the coast. You will also make great memories and new friends.
What qualifications or awards can I achieve?
There are a range of recognised qualifications and awards you can work towards during your time on board, but no pressure to do so.
As a Royal Yachting Association Recognised Training Centre, our voyages follow the RYA Cruising syllabus. Many participants achieve certificates such as Start Yachting or Competent Crew, and can progress to Watch Leader on further voyages.
Please note: While opportunities to gain recognised qualifications are available, these are not awarded automatically. Participants looking to achieve their Competent Crew or Start Yachting qualifications are expected to actively engage, demonstrate competence, and meet the required standards during their voyage.
You may also be able to:
- Complete your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Gold Residential
- Take part in Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Expeditions (separate dedicated voyages)
These qualifications are internationally recognised and can even contribute towards future sailing or maritime careers.
Where are you based?
Our boats are based at and operated from Plymouth Yacht Haven Marina, Mount Batten, Plymouth, Devon PL9 9XH. Directions to the marina can be found here.