The tall ship Tenacious, one of only two tall ships in the world designed and built to enable people of all physical abilities to sail side-by-side as equals, will be sailing to Gibraltar this week – arriving on Tuesday 1st April.

Having spent a brilliant winter exploring the Mediterranean visiting countries including France, Italy, and Malta, Tenacious will be calling in to Gibraltar before departing on her homecoming voyage back to the UK.

Tenacious, which is operated by the Jubilee Sailing Trust and is based in Southampton, was purpose-designed to combine traditional square-rig with special features that make it possible for physically disabled people, including wheelchair users, to take a full and active role in crewing the ship. The special facilities on board ensure that everybody has the opportunity to participate in all aspects of tall ship sailing. Among the bespoke features are:

• Hearing loops
• Wheelchair lifts between decks
• Integrated Braille instructions
• A joy stick for people who want to steer the ship but cannot hold a wheel
• An audio compass for those who want to steer but cannot see.

Since the Jubilee Sailing Trust was established in 1978 over 40,000 people have sailed with us. Of these, approximately 15,000 people were disabled and 5,000 were wheelchair users.

There are still voyage crew spaces available on her homecoming voyage back to Southampton which departs on Thursday (3rd April). Berths are available for both able-bodied and physically disabled people. The lower age limit is 16 and there is no upper age limit.

No sailing experience is necessary as the permanent crew will give all the training and guidance needed to get the most out of the voyage, whether that is showing a crew member how to climb the rigging, steer the ship or haul on a rope to help set the sails.