The sun shone brightly as they left Faslane, and once the sails had been hoisted the training began. The wind was perfect for sailing on the first two days with everyone getting a chance to both crew and helm. The narrow passage through the Burnt Islands tested the pupils’ knowledge of buoyage, before man overboard drills were rigorously practiced. Unfortunately the warm and sunny weather meant there was little wind over the final two days, but this gave time to practice knots, navigation and tidal systems as they travelled down the East coast of Arran.
Once anchored in Brodick Bay, and despite the cold Scottish water, the warm weather meant one thing, a swim off the boat! Throughout the trip, dolphins and seals were regularly seen from the boat, much to the excitement of the crew. However the trip was not just plain sailing, all meals aboard were cooked by the pupils to great reviews by the staff, with the menu including pasta with meatballs, fajitas with Mr Burbury’s homemade guacamole and a celebratory meal out on the final night.
The success of this trip means it is hoped that it will become an annual fixture in the busy Royal Navy calendar.
