Charlotte Nebett, 17 from Sturminster Newton, came onboard Tall Ship Pelican's last adventure voyage from Weymouth to Liverpool. Here she tells of her passion for the sea and her experience onboard.

At around 12 years old, whilst my family and I were living in Henley, I got involved in the local Sea Cadets. I thoroughly enjoyed it from day one and later, when we moved to Dorset, I quickly enrolled with Weymouth Sea Cadets.
I was offered the chance to sail on Royalist, the cadet training ship and went over to France on as well as another voyage from Portsmouth to Penzance. This fuelled my passion for sailing even further.

One day last year, Marketing Director and Second Mate, Ben Swain came down to the cadets to give us a talk on the Tall Ship Pelican, a beautiful ship I had seen before in Weymouth harbour. We were offered the chance to sail in the International Tall Ships Races and I jumped at the chance. I had an amazing time and promised myself I would sail again on the ship this year.

I joined the ship this year in Weymouth as  a trainee watch leader on the first adventure voyage of the season. The voyage was even more fantastic than the last. I learnt so much, from conquering my fear of heights by climbing the rigging and participating much more in group activites as their was such a brilliant community atmosphere onboard. The crew were so friendly and had a great sense of humour, I don't think I have ever laughed so much!
I also made a very good friend, Emily, amongst many more friends that I am sure to stay in touch with. The trip really stretched me and expanded my skillset and for that I am very grateful.

My most vivide memory was on the 4am to 8am watch. We were in the middle of the Irish sea, somewhere near the Isle of Man.The sea was a duck pond, calm and still. At 5am, the sky started to clear, the sun appeared like a massive burning orange ball on the skyline. It was amazing sight. Later that day, I saw dolphins playing just beside the ship. I think these two events are memories that will stay with me for a very long time.

I am currently studying for my A Levels. My ambition is to join the Royal Navy as a Logistics Officer and I have already completed my entrance exams. I would recommend sailing on the Tall SHip Pelican, there is something to be learnt by everyone just by being onboard.