A RYA Competent Crew course was organised in January to ensure that there were adequate numbers of qualified crew to guarantee a successful outcome. The expedition took place on a Victoria 34’ called Janthina, provided by the Joint Services Sail Training Centre (JSASTC). It was funded from a variety of sources including personal contributions and a very helpful grant from the Ulysses Trust.

The expedition started on the 20 June 2005, leaving from JSASTC in Gosport and heading West towards Penzance.

Following a windless week, the second week started well with strong winds being forecast. The rough crossing of the Bristol Channel was aided by an early morning sighting of a large number of dolphins. A very windy week ensured the crew were left exhausted but happy when they left the boat in Whitehaven. 

The third week involved a mixture of strong, light and non-existent winds, combined with beautiful scenery and a large number of mackerel caught by the crew. Due to a late crew cancellation, the boat was forced to go through the Caledonian Canal as opposed to ‘around the top’. Although disappointing at first, the chance to spot Nessie soon occupied everyone’s thoughts, although no sightings were made.

Inverness saw the fourth crew arrive alongside some large seas. Local delights such as Arbroath Smokies were much enjoyed on this leg and were only matched by the wonderful hospitality of the locals! 

Newcastle and the Tall Ships Race met the fifth crew along side the worst weather of the trip. Force 7, 3 metre swell in only 12 metres depth, horizontal rain and poor visibility led to the boat turning back to Grimsby for a welcome afternoon off. The following day the intended trip was made to Ipswich in flat calm seas.