Tall Ship Initiative proving 'good fun' for Manx cadets onboard

Twelve kids aged 14-17 are sailing around Island on TS Leader

Do you think you'd be cut out for a life at sea?

That's the question a group of Manx cadets are answering this week as they take part in an initiative led by Isle of Man Maritime.

Twelve teenagers, aged 14-17, are currently onboard the tall ship Leader, which is 21 metres long and six metres wide, and was built in 1892.

She was commissioned 'for William Robbens by the yard of A W Gibbs at Galmpton Creek on the River Dart, just two miles across the hill from Brixham'.

They've already sailed from Barrow to Douglas and are now travelling around the Island, working on their practical skills.

The Leader was joined on the voyage across by the TS Pelican of London and the TS Spirit of Falmouth.

They all docked briefly on Wednesday (14 August) at Victoria Pier, so our reporter Siobhán Fletcher jumped onboard.

St Ninian's student Matthew Eisen - who lives in Laxey when he's on land - says the experience had been really 'good fun' so far.

Meanwhile General Manager of Isle of Man Maritime Captain Lee Clarke says the kids are learning invaluable skills:

Chief Executive of Seas Your Future Adrian Ragbourne said: "We are delighted to announce our newfound partnership with Isle of Man Maritime. This collaboration aligns with Seas Your Future's mission to educate and develop young people through tall ship voyages.

"Together, we will provide local youngsters with valuable opportunities to develop essential skills and a strong sense of purpose.

"We extend our thanks to Isle of Man Maritime for their invaluable support in making this partnership a reality, as we embark on this journey to inspire and shape the future of our maritime community."