 I first heard about the Tall Ship Pelican from Budmouth school where I am a student. I didn't think it was for me at all - I had been on fishing trips when I was younger but nothing like being on a tall ship! Next I heard from Connexions in Weymouth who told me they were working with TS Pelican and they thought I could benefit from going onboard. I was very nervous, I had no idea what to expect. Myself and a couple of my friends agreed to give it a go though and so we soon found ourselves in Antwerp, about to start was to be the best experience of my life.
One thing I was really nervous about was climbing the rigging. However after a bit of gentle persuasion from the crew I was up - and loving every minute! I even earned the nickname "little monkey" because I was really good at it! This increased my confidence no end and I soon found myself involved in every aspect of life on the ship - from four o'clock watches (I didn't find this so bad as I am an early bird anyway!) to food preparation and so much more. I also made friends with all the other voyage crew and we are still in touch now. The crew were all so friendly, warm and welcoming and I really felt like we were a family very quickly.
I watched every beautiful sunrise and sunset and they were incredible. I also vividly remember seeing hundreds of jellyfish swimming alongside the ship - truly amazing!
However something even more incredible happened when I returned. I recieved a phone call from one of the crew to inform me that I had won the Torbay Cup for outstanding individual achievement and personal effort. This award was coveted by all the 120 ships that participated and 6,662 trainees. Apparently I beat hundreds of other nominees - what an honour!
I am looking to be a teacher when I finish education and this will enable me to spend long holidays sailing on the Tall Ship!
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