A Cornish charity has launched a new campaign to find a team of military veterans for a Tudor-themed sailing trip between Cornwall and London.

Turn to Starboard is offering the chance for up to 50 veterans to take part in the unique expedition for a one-way voyage in either direction. The Tudor Run will set sail from Pendennis Castle on the headland at Falmouth on 3 May 2022 on board three yachts and a 92ft traditional Tall Ship.

Crew members will spend around two weeks at sea navigating the southern coast of England while passing a series of Henry VIII’s great Tudor forts and landmarks. The expedition will close with a cruise up the River Thames to the iconic Tower of London. After a few days of rest, a new crew will be welcomed on board for the return voyage to Falmouth.

Places are open to Armed Forces personnel with physical or mental health challenges as a result of their Service – or those experiencing isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Helen Jane, operations manager at Turn to Starboard, said: “This ambitious voyage is ideal for those looking for an adventure at sea while passing famous historical landmarks of the Tudor period. Whether a novice or experienced sailor, you’ll get the chance to develop your sailing skills with our lead crew in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.

“As with all our sailing expeditions, the aim is to enable individuals to experience freedom on the water, meet people facing similar challenges as their own, and gain valuable new skills. Thanks to our kind and generous supporters, all places are provided free of charge and include three meals a day plus the loan of waterproof kit and safety lifejacket. Successful applicants will need to attend a familiarisation course at Falmouth before the event.”

Participants are expected to return as competent sailors with valuable ‘mileage’ towards an RYA Yachtmaster qualification. The award allows the holder to work professionally in the boating industry and is recognised worldwide as a certificate of competency.

Launched in 2012, Turn to Starboard offers several strands of activity including Royal Yachting Association (RYA) sailing courses, family sailing trips and Tall Ship sailing. The charity has provided more than 3,000 sailing opportunities to injured veterans and their families. The focus is on resettlement, reintegration and reinforcing a sense of value and belonging for participants, along with an opportunity to gain professional sailing qualifications to start new careers in the marine industry.

The Tudor Run follows a series of successful sailing expeditions organised by the charity for military veterans – including two Round Britain Challenges which saw teams circumnavigate the British Isles on board a traditional Tall Ship. In 2021, around 50 veterans took to be part in The Long Way Up – an ambitious sailing expedition from Land’s End to Scotland. Both of the life-changing expeditions helped participants gain professional sailing qualifications and take positive steps forward in their lives.

If you are interested in taking part in The Tudor Run, please email Helen Jane at helen@turntostarboard.co.uk or call 01326 314262. The closing date for applications is 28 February 2022.

To donate to the expedition, please visit turntostarboard.co.uk/the-tudor-run/

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