The Trinity Sailing Trust

The Trinity Sailing Trust is a registered charity (no. 1076538) which has two principal objectives:

• To assist the personal development of disadvantaged and disabled young people through offshore sailing on traditional vessels

• To restore and preserve its vessels as important examples of our maritime heritage

The Trust is based in South Devon and operates three vessels: the former sailing trawlers ‘Leader’ and ‘Provident’ and the gaff cutter ‘Golden Vanity’.

It was established in 1999 by bringing together three previously separate organisations with wide experience in the fields of sail training and maritime heritage.

Trinity is a member of the Association of Sea Training Organisations (ASTO) and a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) recognised sail training establishment.

The Young People

They come from all manner of backgrounds, and have many different problems. Some have learning or emotional difficulties, or behavioural problems. Many are from areas of social deprivation, both urban and rural. They may be excluded from school, at risk of offending, or on rehabilitation from alcohol or drug abuse. Some are, or have been, in care, or are the victims of abuse. Others may be blind, partially sighted or deaf.

They are generally low achievers, at risk of failing to make an effective transition to adult life, and the great majority share a lack of confidence and low self esteem.

Trinity’s aim is to change that by letting them find out what they themselves are capable of achieving, working as part of a team in a challenging environment. Those who take part emerge with new and positive feelings about themselves and others, and a belief that the pattern of their lives can be changed.

The benefits derived from the experience are explained in detail in Sea Training for Young People.

Sail training is a tool, a catalyst and a means of motivating young people, changing attitudes and expectations, and encouraging them to take steps that will change the course of their lives for the better. It is not an end in itself, nor a one-off experience.

Our work is carried out in conjunction with many organisations involved in the welfare of young people: schools and colleges, youth groups, social services, local authorities and other statutory bodies. They are able to capitalise on the change in attitude that Trinity brings about, ensuring that long term benefits result.

Part of Trinity's approach to sail training is to include in the experience adults who will be working with the young people in the long term. Sharing it helps bring strong relationships that can be used in making later progress.

The number of young people helped has grown steadily since Trinity was established, and now averages more than 500 each year. They do learn much about handling traditional vessels during their time with us, but they learn far more about themselves, and about how to live and work with others.

The Ships

Trinity's three traditional gaff-rigged vessels were all built in South Devon between 1892 and 1924.

Former working vessels, they are strongly built, provide safe and stable working platforms and are seaworthy in any conditions. These are ideal qualities for sea training vessels.

They are big enough to present a real challenge, yet manageable enough to allow young people to take part in all of the activities on board.

On deck everything is as it was when they were first built. There are no mechanical aids; all tasks are done manually. That means teamwork is an intrinsic and important element in sailing them.

Down below they have been fitted out for their modern role, and they are fully equipped with the most up-to-date safety, navigation and communication equipment.

Their crews are experienced in both seamanship and working with young people.

At one time or another each of the vessels was at risk, and only rescued by the dedicated efforts of people who appreciated their importance as examples of our maritime heritage.

Trinity believes that the best way of ensuring their continued survival is by keeping them in working condition and earning their keep by fulfilling a worthwhile modern role.

For further information about the vessels and their history, go to Maritime Heritage.