Page 78 - RSDG Year of 2023

76 EAGLE AND CARBINE
SAILING
After a prolonged absence, sailing has returned as a routine feature of life at regimental duty. During 2023, two expeditions were run: one to the Caribbean, one to the Inner Hebrides (no prizes for guessing which was oversubscribed).
EXERCISE MUTANTS VOYAGE
Lance Corporal Jackman
Ex MUTANTS VOYAGE saw ten soldiers depart for Antigua in the Caribbean to learn how to sail and crew a sailing yacht. Once we landed in Antigua, we travelled to the Second Star Sailing school where we were introduced to our instructors and split down in to crews for the remainder of the course. We lived and worked on the boat for the entirety of the course, apart from the small time we spent ashore where we could explore the local area and experience the local culture and way of life.
On the first day we got stuck into the basics of how to raise the sails, helm yacht into the wind correctly, as well as getting used to being on a boat at sea, which for many of us was a new experience. During the course we learned how to effectively crew the yacht and work together to keep the daily routine. This included the cooking of the meals whilst out at sea which each crew: each crewmember succeeded, and the food was excellent considering the basic standard of facilities onboard.
Alongside the learning, we got to witness some incredible views of both the clear blue ocean and wildlife including a dolphin and sea turtles, as well as the incredible views of the island from the sea. With the help of a drone, we were able to get some extraordinary birds eye views of the scenery and us sailing along. We also got to snorkel off a
coral reef, which although sadly had been degraded from global warming, was still a great experience. We also got the opportunity to see historical forts from the old colonial history of the island as well lots of fancy and expensive yachts and boats which made us all dream of a lottery win.
After a short case of sea sickness, we completed the course which had allowed us to explore the cost of Antigua. Those attending gained their RYA Competent Crew quali- fication which is the first level of course to crew a sailing yacht, including how to tie knots, trim the sails and handle the yacht.
To finish we visited a charity called Sailability on the island run by an ex-British Army solider This is a charity which helps local disabled kids and adults experience dinghy sailing with the safety of an experienced local instructor, and a specialised dingy designed to not tip over. It was heart-warming to see such passion and devotion from a ex-British Soldier who has dedicated himself to helping less fortunate and vulnerable people, giving them something to look forward to and enjoy no matter their unfortunate situation or disability.