EIGHT Hampshire adults with learning disabilities, accompanied by two support staff and a professional crew, have returned from the experience of a lifetime – a week on the century old gaff cutter, the Jolie Brise.

Jolie Brise, built in Le Havre in 1913 and now owned by Dauntsey’s School, is a familiar sight around the Solent, a much loved old lady that has been a sail training vessel since 1975.

The youngsters, from Charitable Incorporated Organisation and the QE2 Activity Centre based at River Hamble Country Park in Hedge End, recently spent seven days and nights on the boat and experienced a typical British summer holiday - four seasons in one week - one day sunbathing, the next in full wet weather gear.

ALSO READ: QE2 Activity Centre launches new wheelchair accessible boat

There was seasickness, seal watching, and sleeping out under the stars.

“When the skipper said that the sailing was the least important part of the week I didn’t believe him. But watching our crew pulling together, working as one, whether it was to haul the sails up or put food on the table I saw what he meant,” said QE2 centre manager Phil Oates.

There was time to go ashore in Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, Lymington, where the team was able to join in an art group for neurodiverse artists at St Barbe Gallery, and Portsmouth for a last night afloat celebration.

In Portsmouth, some of the crew from a Danish square rigger, the George Stage, came aboard to take a look at the classic cutter.

Daily Echo:

And what did the young seafarers think? “Bloody brilliant!” said Paul Jordan, a sentiment echoed by the others.

Phil added: “I don’t know who enjoyed it most, probably me!

"But it was great to see everyone mucking in, trying new things, following technical instructions, helping their friends and having a great time.”

The centre provides activity sessions and day services for people of all ages with additional needs.

 

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News