SEA fairing students have sailed into port after navigating a North Sea crossing on an historic tall ship.
Young sailors from Trinity Academy, in Thorne, enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime maritime experience as they berthed at The Port of Blyth following a nine-day passage from London via Brugge on the 200ft British ship Stavros S Niarchos.
The young sailors formed part of a crew of 37 from the Emmanuel Schools Foundation with fellow students from sister schools The King’s Academy, in Coulby Newham, Bede Academy, in Blyth, and Emmanuel College, Gateshead.
As well as living on board, the students, who boarded the vessel at Canary Wharf, took part in all ship duties including helming, scaling the 50 metre masts to set and stow sails, navigating, scrubbing the decks, cooking for fellow shipmates and night watches on the bridge.
Science teacher Reuben Mattinson, who accompanied the students on board, said: “This was my first big sailing trip and a great opportunity for the students.
“They all really pulled together and as well as all of the duties on board they also got to enjoy some sightseeing in Brugge and shopping for Belgian chocolates.”
Alongside working their passage, on the vessel owned and run by the Tall Ships Youth Trust, the students were also given the opportunity to row the longliners, which forms part of a yachting award towards their first step on the ladder for sail training.
Trinity student Abi Ball, 14, said: “I was a bit scared when I first came on board not knowing what to expect but it has been fantastic.
“I wasn’t very keen on climbing the rigging as I’m scared of heights, but I did it - although I don’t think I’d go up there again in a hurry.”
Courtney Kostyszyn, 14, added: “I got to help steer the ship, climb the rigging and cook in the galley as well as lots and lots of cleaning.
“But the best bit has been meeting so many new people from all of the other schools - we all feel like one big family and we’ve all enjoyed this amazing experience together.”
