Eight young people from North Lanarkshire took part in the 9th OYT Scotland voyage funded by CashBack for Communities this year. The group set sail from Oban on the 15th August, and spent 5 days at sea. They had a busy week, logging 129 miles and visiting Kerrera, Tobermory, and Loch Na Keal before returning to Oban on the 19th.
The weather was mixed for the first-time sailors as they took on all the challenges of sailing the 72ft yacht Alba Explorer. They learned to navigate and steer the boat, hoist and drop the sails, tie knots and cook for the whole crew.
All the young people threw themselves into the experience and worked hard to achieve the goals they set themselves. They seemed to especially enjoy the social aspect of the voyage, reflecting that they enjoyed “working as a team”, and that “learning new skills”. Other comments about the trip included:
“I hope to do my bosun training so that I can come back and help other people learn the skills and gain qualifications I have gained with my time on board.”
“There were lots of things on the boat that I didn’t think I could do but now I realise I can.”
“I learned to be more patient and listen and be more constructive.”
“I feel proud that I cooked for 16 people. Now I can go home and cook for my mum!”
“I really enjoyed the trip. I liked having responsibility and I worked well with others.”
With future goals of volunteering with OYT Scotland, being less stubborn, work more in teams, and keeping in touch with friends made on board, the confidence gained and lessons learned during the voyage will make a difference for everyone in the group.
All members of the crew received the Royal Yachting Association’s Start Yachting Level 1 Award, the SQA’s Level 3 Speaking and Listening qualification.
Also taking part in the voyage were two group leaders, Gillian Finnegan and Kieran Wilson.
A very special thanks to the volunteers and sea staff who helped make the voyage a success!