Reflections from the Helm of CatZero
2025 has been one of our busiest and most exhilarating sailing seasons to date. It has been a year defined by challenge, determination and achievement, with every voyage showing what people can do when they step outside their comfort zone.
A Challenging Start
The season began with unexpected difficulty. Heavy silt build up in our home marina meant we had to find alternative berthing. What we thought would be a short term issue became a year long operation. Yet the team did what they always do. They adapted, improvised and kept the programme moving. Despite the disruption, the sailing calendar stayed full and CatZero was rarely still for long.
Voyages to Norway
“The best personal development trip I have ever been on. Watching a 15 year old take in the stay sail in heavy rain and bouncing waves, and the thrill on his face, was unforgettable.”
We also welcomed Tonbridge School for their first CatZero experience, taking two groups of young people to Norway.
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The first crew sailed CatZero to Stavanger
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The second proudly brought her home to the UK
These voyages give young people a rare level of independence and a powerful sense of achievement. They always return changed.
The Thomas Boyd Sailing Bursary
A standout moment this year was the launch of the Thomas Boyd Sailing Bursary, funded by The Fishmongers’ Company in memory of Thomas Boyd and secured for three years. It enabled two participants from our employability programmes to join the return leg from Stavanger to Grimsby.
Lilli, aged 19, summed up the impact clearly:
“It has definitely changed me as a person. This voyage has given me confidence for the future.”
Read more about this in our previous blog post.
Family and Youth Taster Sails
Alongside our major voyages, we delivered taster sails for our Full Families programmes and for the Children’s Holiday Programme. These sails give families time together on the water and help young people build confidence at key moments of change.
September Residential Voyage
Our final long sail, from 12 to 21 September, saw ten young people fully commit to life at sea. Their reflections say more than any log entry could:
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Beth, 17: “The long sail was an experience of a lifetime. It made me realise I am exactly where I want to be.”
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Maks, 18: “Seeing dolphins next to the boat was amazing. I was scared of deep water, but I did something I never thought I could.”
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Luke, 19: “It made me feel like I can push myself and try new things.”
One of the season’s most powerful stories came from Kieran, aged 19. He had been socially isolated and struggling with confidence before joining CatZero. On the long sail he thrived. He asked questions, learned fast and stepped fully into the life of the boat. His emotional farewell spoke volumes about how much he had grown.
Work With Partner Organisations
We continued our valued work with the Sailors’ Children’s Society and ABF Veterans, delivering meaningful and often life changing sailing experiences for young people and ex service personnel.
Paid Expeditions Supporting Our Future
2025 also saw a rise in paid for voyages. These trips are essential, as the income helps secure our long term ability to run charitable programmes.
This year included:
Norway Delivery and Return Trips
Demand for our public Norway expeditions remained high. These voyages are tough, rewarding and often transformative.
OutdoorLads Dutch Dash
A fast and lively crossing to the Netherlands with OutdoorLads. A brilliant crew and a trip we are already receiving requests to repeat.
Rolex Fastnet Race
Our Fastnet campaign was a major highlight. CatZero beat all the Challenge 72s and all the Clipper 68s. A huge achievement and a proud moment for everyone involved.
Read more about this in our previous blog post.
Looking Ahead
With the busiest sailing season in our history complete, CatZero is now in refit. Preparations for 2026 are already under way and it looks set to be even bigger and even more ambitious.
More sails.
More challenge.
More adventure.
More lasting personal change.
From everyone at CatZero, thank you for being part of an unforgettable year.
Danny Watson, Director of Sailing