Cornish Charity Sea Sanctuary Announces Tall Ship Irene as its Newest Team Member

Sea Sanctuary, a mental health charity based in Cornwall and one of the world’s leading advocates of blue health, will welcome its latest team member Irene, a stunning, 100-foot, historic tall ship, into Falmouth on 7th April. 

Blue health is the concept that blue spaces, like the sea, are profoundly beneficial for people’s mental and emotional wellbeing, and can help them achieve their personal equilibrium. The arrival of Irene will allow Sea Sanctuary’s unique approach to reach a far wider audience and will also help people to understand why a natural environment, combined with psychological support, is a particularly potent formula for improving wellbeing. 

Irene replaces a smaller boat, a move which reflects the increase in the demand of these critical services and the evolution of the charity who expertise and services are growing year on year from private clients, as well as corporate charters.  

While she was built in 1907, being on board Irene will help 21st century businesses and organisations to support their employees’ mental health and wellbeing, as they sail around the stunning Cornish coastline.  Fully crewed with an experienced skipper, first mate, deckhand, chef and therapists, Irene will be the base for day-long and longer-term residential excursions.

The past two years have been challenging for many, and those who sail on Irene will benefit from the physical closeness and peacefulness of being at sea, as well as having time to engage in blue therapy.

Under the expert guidance of a fully trained crew, client sailors will be encouraged to get involved in all aspects of sailing Irene; from hoisting her sails and trimming the ropes, to taking the helm and getting her ready for anchor. Guests will work together in groups with onboard therapists who will use psychological tools to help to improve the overall mental wellbeing of participants. 

Joseph Sabien, CEO, says: "The Sea Sanctuary theory is simple; the awe and wonder of the sea, combined with psychological therapy, and the invigorating adventure of sailing, is a recipe for improving health outcomes, regardless of age, gender or demographic. With this in mind, we are excited about the arrival of Irene and are looking forward to welcoming sailors on board for a mental wellbeing experience like no other.  

"Our sailing days and residential therapeutic voyages are perfect for organisations looking to improve the mental health and wellbeing of their employees,” he adds. “Those who participate in our programs are not the only ones to benefit as any profits from the operation will subsidise the cost of people in the local community who need our support but cannot afford it. We are looking forward to a busy summer and are confident that sailors, both individuals and groups of employees, who spend time with our team aboard Irene, will have a life changing experience.” 

For more information go to seasanctuary.org.uk