A voyage on board Helen Mary R is a great opportunity to learn new skills, face new challenges, and overcome your fears. You'll be amazed that you're able to achieve things you didn't think you would be able to do. The Afterguard will push you to get the best out of your experience.

Challenging yourself and pushing your boundaries will help you get the most out of the voyage. The Skipper and Afterguard will try to keep you somewhere between boredom and anxiety – but closer to anxiety. In other words, we aim that you shouldn't be so overwhelmed that you break down and give up, but we also shouldn't be coasting either.

In Sail Training we don't believe in the word can't, there is nothing stopping anyone taking part in a voyage eventually becoming a volunteer Skipper of Helen Mary R! The only thing stopping you will be your enthusiasm and determination to learn onboard, you will be encouraged to achieve your potential, encouraged to ask questions, and encouraged to try different activities.

Just remember, there is no such word as can't onboard just I can!

Completing a voyage demonstrates that there might be more to you than someone who just sits at home, playing computer games and watching TV. There are plenty of examples of people who have used their voyage with the Project and other sail training organisations as part of a successful college, university or job application.

Even if you are a high achiever with a long list of exam passes or successes in other fields, a voyage adds an extra dimension to your record. Here are just a few of the experiences from a voyage which can be relevant in other areas of your life:

• Team working, working with new people & building communication skills
• Building confidence, taking responsibility, developing initiative & overcoming challenges
• Learning new skills & Practising leadership skills
• Tolerance and understanding of other people – especially those from very different backgrounds
• Basic life skills – such as cooking, cleaning and getting up on time
• Seizing opportunities

Everyone completes a logbook onboard which records your achievements as well as something to hold your memories of the voyage. Each participant gets a personal development plan from the Skipper and Afterguard, which details what you did, where the boat went, and how many miles you sailed during your voyage. Your personal development plan also helps you to take the lessons you have learnt onboard and apply them at home.

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