Wellbeing
Building self-belief, a sense of purpose and the capacity to thrive.
Knowing They Can
Residential adventures at sea help young people and disabled people to discover their strengths, build confidence, and see new possibilities for their future.
Adventures at sea
More Than Learning to Sail
On these adventures, also known as sail training voyages, participants contribute to a community, living and working together to help sail the vessel, prepare meals, keep watch and look after one another, supported by experienced staff.
Across the UK, ASTO’s 30 member organisations provide these opportunities for young people and disabled people.
Our members are independent organisations, each with their own vessels, programmes and approaches. They share a belief in the value of genuine challenge, real responsibility and being part of a community to create opportunities for personal development.
10,684
Individual Beneficiaries
1,334
Sail Training Trips
47,467
Participant Days at Sea
Activity delivered by ASTO member organisations in 2025
The Difference a Voyage Can Make
Encouraged and supported to overcome challenges and take on responsibilities, participants discover what they can do.
The experience can help them feel more capable, connected and ready for what comes next.
“I have seen first hand what happens when people are taken out of their everyday situation and given a genuine challenge, one where they must rely on each other, take responsibility and discover what they are truly capable of.”
HRH Duchess of Edinburgh GCVO, Royal Patron of ASTO
Championing UK Sail Training
ASTO is the Association of Sail Training Organisations. We bring together and support the charities and organisations delivering residential adventures at sea across the UK.
We represent the sector’s interests, help members share knowledge and good practice, and provide funding and development opportunities. Together, we work to strengthen the sector and enable more people to benefit from sail training.
Stories & News from Across the Sector
Discover the people, experiences and ideas shaping UK sail training.
Next Steps
Arrange an adventure at sea
Working with young people, planning a group voyage or looking for an individual opportunity? Learn more about sail training and find an organisation that can help.
Support greater opportunity
Commissioning or funding programmes for young people or disabled people? Talk to us about how sail training could contribute to your aims.
