Australian Navy’s sail training ship STS Young Endeavour has crossed the Atlantic Ocean for the first time in more than twenty years, arriving in Europe to participate in the Centenary of Anzac Commemorations and the International Tall Ship Races.
During the voyage the crew spent 38 days at sea and sailed more than five thousand nautical miles from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to Cadiz, Spain. In addition to ensuring the safe operation of the ship in conditions ranging from strong headwinds to the calm seas of the doldrums, the Navy staff were responsible for teaching the 24 youth on board – many who had never sailed before – the skills to crew the square-rigged tall ship.
Collectively, they ensured each participant spent at least 240 hours on the bridge, more than 80 hours on deck setting and furling sails, 40 hours cleaning the ship, four days assisting the chef in the galley, and many hours climbing the 30 metre masts, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean and singing sea shanties.
The 24 youth who sailed Young Endeavour across the Atlantic Ocean were selected by ballot and represent every Australian state and territory. They number amongst more than 200 youth who will join one of nine voyage crews as Young Endeavour circumnavigates the world for the first time since 1992.
The ship is on its way to Gallipoli for Centenary of Anzac commemorations this week.
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Image: Australian Navy