For over 40 years the East Coast Sail Trust has provided 5-day cruises for children between the ages of 9 and 16 as they learn the seafaring skills of teamwork, self-reliance and values. In this time some 10,000 children have benefited from this unique experience which enriches and remains with them for the rest of their lives.
Our 5 day cruises are not limited to school children but are also extended to young adults sponsored by social services, disability charities, military resettlement organisations and any organisation where the experience of living and working in a different world can be seen to build the qualities of good citizenship and foster team building and leadership skills.
The Thames sailing barge Thalatta is the key part of the experience offered. Thanks to Heritage Lottery funding to supplement the Trust\’s own funds she has been completely restored to \’as new\’ condition and refitted to provide accommodation for 12 passengers and a crew of 3 to 4.