Applications now open for 2021 voyages

Applications are now open for 2021 voyages in STS Young Endeavour, Australia’s national Sail Training Ship. Youth aged 16-23 are invited to apply for the new 2021 voyage dates, sailing from May – December in New South Wales, Queensland and Victorian waters. The Royal Australian Navy ship Young Endeavour will become home to the youth crew, who live and work together during their 11-day adventure at sea.

Liam Mackay, aged 23, joined Young Endeavour for Voyage 1 in February, applying after his planned international exchange was postponed. “The voyage exceeded my expectations – I was astounded by how much we learnt in 10 days. The first few days were overwhelming – we had to learn every rope, every sail, how to tie knots and to climb aloft. Once we were able to process the new information we started to really enjoy ourselves”.

Each voyage culminates in command day, where youth crew take command of the ship for 24 hours, putting the sailing and teamwork skills they have learnt into action. Liam was chosen as youth crew Captain and found the challenge to be a rewarding one. “Command day really pushed me. It was a stressful 24 hours but we gave it our best shot,” Liam said. “One of the things that stood out for me is that each youth crew member has to become a leader – it wasn’t just the youth crew Captain, Sailmaster and Navigator making decisions – we needed input from everyone. I learnt that being a leader doesn’t preclude the help of others”.

Aside from learning how to sail the square rigged tall ship, Liam and his fellow youth crew had the chance to form strong bonds and to focus on personal development. “I thought the differences in ages might make it difficult, but it was easy to get along with everyone and I made great friends,” Liam said. “I’ve set a new standard for myself and have been trying to use the skills I learnt in leadership and decision making in my everyday life”.

Youth crew are offered a place in Young Endeavour via a ballot that is weighted to ensure diversity. No sailing experience is necessary. The program is delivered by a professional Royal Australian Navy crew who ensure the highest standards of safety and care, including the new COVID-19 safe voyaging measures. Due to the safe voyaging measures, main round offers will be made to applicants residing in NSW, QLD, VIC and ACT. Applicants from all other states will remain on the waiting list until restrictions are eased.

Since 1988 over 14,000 young Australians from all parts of the country have sailed in Young Endeavour, taking part in an inspiring youth development experience that helps participants to develop self-awareness and confidence, and gives them an opportunity to build their teamwork and leadership skills through sail training and self-development activities.

Applications are open to young Australians aged 16-23 and will be accepted online.