The Association of Sail Training Organisations (ASTO) welcomed a record number of delegates to its annual UK Sail Training Conference on 29 January, with 174 attendees – a 25% increase on last year.
The 2026 conference programme featured a dynamic mix of keynote speeches and specialist sessions designed for sea staff, member charity trustees, and representatives from the sail training and wider maritime sector.
Kerry McMillan, Chief Executive of ASTO, said: “We were delighted to host the UK Sail Training Conference again and to welcome so many dedicated colleagues from across the sail training and maritime sector. Events like this are invaluable for fostering collaboration, sharing best practice, and inspiring one another to continue creating life-changing experiences for young people at sea. There’s nothing quite like bringing the community together to celebrate our achievements and plan for the future.”
Pip Hare, world-class sailor and record-breaking offshore racing athlete, delivered the opening plenary, inspiring delegates with her experience in a male-dominated sport and her achievements, including finishing the Vendée Globe and setting multiple world records.
Sessions covered a broad spectrum of topics, with a buzzing atmosphere as organisations that rarely have the chance to come together shared ideas and expertise. The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust shared lessons learned on expanding access and inclusion to ensure more young people, including those in recovery from illness, could experience sail training. A fundraising panel and clinic provided expert guidance on grant management, trusts and foundations, and building lasting relationships with funders.
Delegates explored practical approaches to enhancing sailing experiences through connecting with blue spaces, ecological awareness, and outdoor learning. Rob Taylor, MCA Code Vessel Lead, delivered in-depth guidance on sport or pleasure vessel code updates.
Kim Fry, Safeguarding and Welfare Manager at UKSA, discussed practical strategies to identify challenges and support young people’s wellbeing in maritime programs. Andy Wright, an experienced skipper and trainer, led practical guidance on the delivery of ASTO RYA qualifications for Start Yachting, Competent Crew, and Watch Leader schemes.
Attendees also had time to network and connect over lunch, attend the ASTO AGM, and participate in interactive workshops, with genuine excitement in the room as colleagues reconnected and forged new partnerships.
The conference also celebrated excellence across the sector with the presentation of the following awards:
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Challenge Wales Legacy Cup for Environmental Action: Tall Ships Youth Trust
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Challenge Wales Legacy Cup for Volunteer Impact: Ocean Youth Trust Scotland
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Social Media Star: Rona Sailing Project
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Shore Based Staff Impact Award: Annette Potter from OYT South
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MCA / ASTO Sail Training Vessel of the Year: Helen Mary R – Morvargh Sailing Project
The conference underscored ASTO’s ongoing mission: to foster personal development, teamwork, and adventure through sailing, ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to engage with life-changing maritime experiences.
To find out more about opportunities, pathways through sail training and our members, visit:www.asto.org.uk.
