More than 100 people with multiple sclerosis set sail from Port Solent Marina on Sunday for the Sail the Solent challenge.
The first time an event of this scale has been attempted in the UK, the challenge, which launched at 10am, will set sail each day at 10.30am from Port Solent, with seven participants board the sailing vessel Kotari.
It is running for two weeks until July 14.
While exploring the waters of the Solent, the crew will help participants build strength and confidence and challenge their limitations.
MS is a condition that can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.
READ MORE: Foundation set up in memory of actor Chance Perdomo
For newly diagnosed people, the challenge is an opportunity to experience new possibilities and connect with others with MS in a social environment.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone with multiple sclerosis to try and explore possibilities after diagnosis,” said Oceans of Hope UK CEO Robert Munns.
“We want to encourage newly diagnosed people, in Hampshire and beyond, and their carers, to get involved in this unique event and challenge themselves in a way they thought impossible.”
Oceans of Hope UK is a charity that supports people with MS in improving their mental and physical health through sailing.
Sailing endeavours such as the Sail the Solent challenge provide participants, many of whom will be newly diagnosed, with a sense of camaraderie, friendship, and mutual understanding.
For many sailors, this will be their first taste of sailing, an opportunity to discover the restorative and regenerative power of being on the water.
Miranda from Southsea took part in the challenge’s opening day, as she said: “I am so fed up with living life within the four walls of my house; today, I am so free of all of that.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here