Teen to Sail Century-Old Fishing Boat from Scotland to Norway

Teen Sailor to Cross North Sea in Historic Fishing Boat as Part of Tall Ships Race

Seventeen-year-old Jamie is set to take on the adventure of a lifetime this summer, as he joins the 2025 Tall Ships Race aboard a century-old fishing vessel. Beginning his leg of the race on 4 July, Jamie will sail across the North Sea from Aberdeen to Kristiansand, Norway, as part of an international crew.

Describing the voyage as “an exciting challenge,” Jamie said the experience will allow him to sail offshore, collaborate with an international team, and further develop his maritime skills.

The full race route includes stops in Le Havre and Dunkirk in France, before heading to Aberdeen where Jamie will come aboard. After reaching Kristiansand, the fleet will conclude in Esbjerg, Denmark.

Jamie will be sailing on the Excelsior, a historic Lowestoft fishing smack built in 1921. Designed to endure the harsh North Sea, the vessel was fully restored in 1989 and now regularly competes in prominent maritime events.

A young dinghy instructor at the Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club, Jamie secured his spot in the race thanks to a £1,000 grant from the 2025 Clipper Bursary.

“This bursary helps cover the cost of travel, gear, and the voyage itself,” Jamie explained. “After the race, I’ll return to Jersey to continue teaching sailing. For the past two summers, I’ve enjoyed inspiring younger sailors, and I hope my journey encourages them to pursue their own adventures.”

In addition to Jamie’s achievement, a team of young sailors from Jersey also received recognition through the Clipper Bursary. Representing the St. Helier Yacht Club, the Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club, and St. Catherine’s Sailing Club, the group earned a £500 grant to participate in the David Haw Memorial Trophy keelboat regatta on the Hamble River this August.

Sailors Tyler Horton, Richie Forbes, Harvey Godel, Juliette Walton, and Todd Watkins will compete in the event, aiming to build skills and promote youth keelboat sailing.

“This race gives us the chance to grow as sailors, inspire the next generation, and strengthen Jersey’s presence in the UK racing scene,” said Todd. “The bursary helps with entry fees and travel, making it possible for us to proudly represent our island.”