The Jubilee Sailing Trust (JST) is a registered charity that promotes the integration of people of all physical abilities through the challenge of tall ship sailing on board its two ships, Lord Nelson and Tenacious. These are the only two of their kind in the world, purpose-designed and built to enable people of all physical abilities to sail side by side on equal terms. Everyone on board has a part to play whatever their level of experience or ability.
Facilities on board include flat, wide decks for ease of movement around the ships, wheelchair lifts between deck levels, a hearing loop, a speaking compass and the option for joystick steering or the usual ship’s wheel, but with hydraulic power-assisted steering.
Sara Barron, Chairman, and Alan Puddicombe, Secretary, of the Plymouth Branch of JST, both speak warmly of their personal experience of sailing with the JST.
As Sara says:
"It’s a great chance to take myself out of my comfort zone and try new things. I love the thrill of the sailing, the chance to work as part of a team, and the opportunity to help realise other people’s ambitions too."
Paul adds:
"It’s the continuing wonder of up to 40 people of totally different backgrounds and ages coming together and within minutes chatting away as if they’d known each other for life; the emotion –wrecking time on every trip when you see those who want some extra help to get aloft do so and totally exceed their expectations; seeing the resulting broadest of smiles and happiest of yells; knowing that we really do change lives; because I have seen it happen."
There are currently berths available for May 2011 on 5-7 day UK voyages departing from Weymouth, Dartmouth and Brixham, and taster day sails from Weymouth, Dartmouth and Falmouth. Full details of all of the JST’s voyages are available at: www.jst.org.uk
The JST operates a 'buddy’ system on board ship for disabled travellers who wish to have an able-bodied companion, or to take their own carer with them on a voyage. Carers would have to pay the full cost of their voyage. Information on 'buddies’ can also be found on the JST website.