Reservations

Luxury Travel

Reservations

Luxury Travel

Darren Naggs, Captain of the Jubilee Sailing Trust’s SV Tenacious, the only tall ship in the world designed to be sailed by a mixed-ability crew

This is a feature from Issue 6 of Charitable Traveller. Click to read more from this issue.

I really do have the best job! I get to see the world and spend time with fantastic people who have great stories to tell, all while doing what I love – sailing! I’m responsible for everything that happens on board the ship but I’m supported by a fantastic team, both onboard and ashore.

Anyone can join our crew for a voyage and we have people of all ages and backgrounds, including people with impairments or health conditions. The experience is deeply immersive and at times challenging – the sea can be a wild place – but Tenacious brings diverse teams together and ensures everyone is treated as equal and contributes to the best of their ability.

A typical day...

…starts with a good look at the weather because what we do and where we go is dictated by it. I like that because it simplifies my life and means I maintain a connection to nature, something that’s missing from many people’s lives. After breakfast we decide a plan. No two days are the same and every day is an adventure. Overseeing the smooth operation of the ship takes up my day but there’s usually time for a brew and a chat with my shipmates – it’s important to communicate.

The best bit...

…is sharing amazing experiences with my shipmates and colleagues. We see lots of whales and dolphins, sometimes leaping but mainly coasting along on the waves at the front of the ship, it’s called bow riding. I once saw a snowy owl on St. Kilda in Scotland.

I have to be prepared...

…to change plans or react to a situation instantly. We may be entering a new harbour which requires tricky manoeuvrers, or we might be under sail but need to adjust our course.

I have learned...

…that people are inherently open, tolerant, friendly and positive. It’s inspiring to see how people draw strength, experience and inspiration from each other whilst onboard, even if they don’t realise it at the time!

Ahoy!

Jubilee Sailing Trust makes a difference to people’s lives via adventure, particularly disabled people, those with long-term mental or physical health issues, the socially isolated and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Sadly, since this feature was published in Issue 6 of Charitable Traveller Magazine, The Jubilee Sailing Trust has ceased operations.

This is a feature from Issue 6 of Charitable Traveller. Click to read more from this issue.