Sailing To Success

LOCH FYNE, SCOTLAND, August 2026

Ten young people from Tarbert Academy in Argyll are back on terra firma following a remarkable four-day voyage -

- jointly funded by Tarbert Harbour and Tall Ships Youth Trust, and a number of other generous contributors, which saw them navigate the seas around Scotland’s west coast, not as observers, but as crew!

The 10 local secondary pupils, along with Tarbert Academy teacher Yasmin Bailey and Kyla Bartlam from Tarbert Harbour Authority (THA), set off from Greenock on a Tall Ships Youth Trust voyage before berthing at Holy Loch, Campbeltown, Largs and Rhu on an unforgettable trip which tested and challenged their seafaring skills.

Across the four days and nights, the students learned key maritime responsibilities, building confidence and discovering resilience in their own waters.

From taking the helm, hauling lines, setting and stowing sails, and rope work, to meteorology, repairing and maintaining equipment, as well as cooking and cleaning below deck and navigating the at times physically challenging Firth of Clyde, the novice crew experienced a fully authentic experience of working life on board the Challenger 1 vessel, one of 12 Challenger vessels built to sail around the world, against the wind.

The innovative approach by organiser, Tall Ships Youth Trust - the UK’s oldest and largest youth development and outdoor learning charity founded in 1956 - combines outdoor learning in an ocean environment, with personal and social development, and practical life skills through a series of challenging residential voyages.

The young crew, learning some essential knots

During a voyage, young people work together as a team, grow in confidence and self-esteem and see a significant improvement in their communication and leadership skills. They gain a range of skills, which can be transferred to their day-to-day lives to help them overcome any barriers and thrive.

In addition to the joint funding by Tarbert Harbour and Tall Ships Youth Trust, the trip was also supported by donations from Tarbert Pharmacy, Tarbert Harbour Boat Jumble, Marina berth holders, visiting leisure boats, Royal Naval Association, Tarbert Enterprise Company, Clyde Cruising Club, and other anonymous contributors.

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Commenting, Darren Mair, Senior Port Manager / Harbour Master at Tarbert (Loch Fyne) Harbour Authority says:

“Tarbert Harbour is proud to be prioritising youth development in our community by having jointly funded this voyage."
“As a community focussed organisation, we are committed to giving back and creating opportunities that inspire and empower our local youth."
“This initiative, in partnership with Tall Ships Youth Trust, reflects not only our values as a Trust Port, but also the dedication of our harbour team, whose enthusiasm and hard work have been instrumental in bringing this idea to fruition."
“We look forward to seeing the positive impact these experiences will have on the students, and to continuing our support for initiatives that strengthen our connection with the local community.”
“Opportunities like this build confidence, resilience, and lifelong memories. Thanks to everyone who made this possible, and well done to the team at Tall Ships Youth Trust for the tremendous work they do with this project.”

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Alastair Floyd, CEO of Tall Ships Youth Trust added:

“This collaboration is exactly what regional youth development looks like for us - ensuring opportunities exist for young people to experience the transformational power of the sea, no matter where they are based."
“Ten local young people stepping aboard Challenger 1, coming together as a crew, and discovering what they’re truly capable of - that is our mission in action. We are hugely grateful to Tarbert Harbour for their vision and support in making this voyage possible.”

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About Tarbert Harbour Authority

Tarbert (Loch Fyne) Harbour Authority (THA) is a Trust Port established by an Act of Parliament in 1912. It is an independent statutory body governed by its own legislation and guided by Government Code of Practice.

THA operates Tarbert Harbour to contribute to Tarbert’s economic prosperity and sustainability.

The governance of the Authority is undertaken by a board of eight trustees, four of whom are elected by the local community, three appointed, and the eighth member is the Harbour Master/Port Manager.

The Authority is a not-for-profit organisation recognised as a social enterprise.

Like any other self-financing business, THA is dependent on cash flow and profits for its successful operation. All surpluses are reinvested to ensure that the facilities and infrastructure are properly maintained and improved for the benefit of its users.

Tarbert (Loch Fyne) Harbour Authority works closely with the local community, supporting local events and providing benefits for its stakeholders through improving leisure facilities and amenities.

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