A small group of the Royal Cape Yacht Club (RCYC) Sailing Academy students recently embarked on a voyage of a lifetime aboard Nave Italia, the world’s largest ‘brig’ sailing ship, currently in active navigation service to learn the ropes of sailing and life skills.
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The five day voyage was organised by the Italian Navy, Fondazione Tender To Nave Italia, with the aim of offering students an immersive training experience.
RCYC Sailing Academy Manager, Jennifer Burger and the ten students were welcomed on board by Admiral Giorgio Lazio and Elisabetta Cesari before setting sail from Civitavecchia in Italy.
The young sailors, ranging from age 18 to 23 years, who attended the sailing and life skills training course all come from various parts of the Cape Flats including Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain, as well as Masiphumelele.
For Philisande Gwala, Jordan Mopp, Siwaphiwe Siboto, Asiphe Ganiso, Thokozile Lusawana, Buyekezwa Mthini, Ovayo Myira, Yolande Mayekiso and Yobanathi Klaas, this was one of many firsts – a first flight overseas, a first time in a new country and possibly a first exposure to Italian culture.
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Fulfilling the aim of the course, the RCYC Sailing Academy students eagerly embraced this opportunity to apply and develop their theoretical knowledge and practical skills of various aspects of sailing under the guidance of some of Italy’s experienced Navy instructors and skilled mentors.
One of the activities included the ascent of the 61-metre mast and involved scrambling up the mast to the first crow’s nest. It is one of the most demanding activities on the boat.
‘As the trip neared its end, a sense of accomplishment and growth enveloped the students. They had overcome challenges and expanded their knowledge,’ said the RCYC Academy.
‘[They] returned home with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with a wealth of experiences that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavours.’
This empowering and transformative trip aboard Nave Italia was made possible by the support of the Italian community and Club members.
Most of the funds were raised as a result of the Italian Ambassadors Race last year with Fondazione Nave Italia sponsoring all expenses in Italy, accommodation, meals, transport and activities during the students’ stay.
The Academy’s Alexforbes Archangel team recently made history in Brazil at the Cape2Rio race when they came third in the iconic Transatlantic race.
‘We are hoping that this young crew, armed with their new knowledge, will be possible candidates as we select team members for the next Cape2Rio race,’ concluded the RCYC.
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Take in views of sails and sea at the Quayside Hotel in Simon’s Town
Picture: RCYC Sailing Academy / Facebook