In a groundbreaking moment for UK maritime heritage, the Excelsior Trust in Lowestoft, Suffolk, has been awarded the prestigious Sultan Qaboos Trophy for Outstanding Services to Sail Training for Young People - the first time a UK sail training charity has earned this accolade. The award was presented at the Sail Training International (STI) awards ceremony held in Northern Spain this November and was proudly accepted by the Trust’s skipper, Charlotte Hathaway.
The Sultan Qaboos Trophy, established by the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman, is the highest international recognition in sail training. It honours organisations that excel in using sail training to transform the lives of young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. For the Excelsior Trust, the award not only acknowledges decades of dedicated service but also underscores the impact of its programmes on thousands of young people.
Accepting the award on behalf of the Trust, skipper Charlotte Hathaway spoke with pride and gratitude: "This trophy is a testament to the dedication of our crew, the support of our volunteers, and the courage of every young person who has set sail with us. The Excelsior Trust believes in the power of sail training to change lives, and we are honoured to receive this international recognition of our efforts."
A Legacy of Transformation
Since its inception over 30 years ago, the Excelsior Trust has taken more than 11,000 young and disadvantaged individuals on life-affirming voyages aboard its historic sailing vessel, Excelsior. Built in 1921, the restored Lowestoft smack has been at the heart of the Trust’s mission to empower young people through the challenges and camaraderie of traditional sail training.
For many participants, these voyages represent more than just a sailing adventure—they offer opportunities for personal growth, confidence building, and the development of teamwork and leadership skills. The Excelsior Trust’s commitment to inclusivity and outreach has seen young people from diverse backgrounds, including those facing personal or social challenges, thrive in its programs.
A Year of Triumphs
The Sultan Qaboos Trophy caps off an extraordinary year for the Trust. In 2024, Excelsior participated in the renowned Tall Ships Races, navigating the Baltic Sea and welcoming trainees from across Europe. The programme provided a unique platform for cultural exchange and fostered international friendships, embodying the very spirit of sail training.
In addition to its sailing achievements, the Trust has continued to expand its shore-based initiatives. These include the development of a maritime heritage centre and training programmes that preserve traditional maritime skills while engaging the local community.
Looking Ahead
With this historic win, the Excelsior Trust is poised to further its mission. The recognition from Sail Training International not only enhances the Trust’s global reputation but also strengthens its ability to secure funding and partnerships for future initiatives.
As the Excelsior Trust charts its course for the future, this milestone serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of sailors, leaders, and changemakers.
Other awards were also made this month to Excelsior volunteers Lucas Owens and Billy Lund whose contributions on board during 2024 were recognised by an East Anglian Maritime Award given recently. EAMA was launched with the aim of encouraging more young people into the industry across Suffolk, Essex and Norfolk.
2025 Season
Plans are coming together for 2025's adventures, with a programme to be announced soon. Excelsior will be taking part in the Tall Ships Races again (sailing from Le Havre to Dunkirk, to Aberdeen, to Kristiansand in Norway, to Esbjerg in Denmark), and is also planning a couple of exciting adventures open to adults. There's still room in the calendar for private charters long and short.
Hoping to get as many young people sailing with Excelsior as possible, the Trust is on the lookout for grants or sponsorship to make sure underprivileged people are able to take part in life-changing experiences. To that end, it is starting a bursary fund dedicated to helping with travel expenses to join the boat (The John Miller Bursary) and hopes to encourage individuals to sponsor a place at Tall Ships Races or one of their other trips. They would welcome discussing support with anyone interested in being part of this or who would like to contribute to the travel bursary fund.
Find out more at www.theexcelsiortrust.co.uk
Source: Press release
Image courtesy Excelsior Trust
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