In a first for any UK sail training charity, the Lowestoft-based Excelsior Trust has been awarded the Sultan Qaboos Trophy.

The recognition, given for Outstanding Services to Sail Training for Young People, was presented at the November Sail Training International (STI) awards ceremony in Northern Spain.

The Sultan Qaboos Trophy, named after the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman, is the highest international recognition in sail training.

Scottish charity Excelsior Trust wins international sailing award The Excelsior (Image: Newquest) It acknowledges organisations excelling in using sail training to positively transform the lives of young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Excelsior Trust has been doing exactly that for over three decades, having taken more than 11,000 young individuals on life-altering voyages aboard its historic 1921 sailing vessel, Excelsior.

For many participants, these voyages provide more than just a sailing adventure.

They offer opportunities for personal growth, confidence building, and the development of teamwork and leadership skills.

The trust's commitment to inclusivity has seen young people from diverse backgrounds thrive in its programmes.

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The Excelsior Trust's skipper, Charlotte Hathaway, proudly accepted the accolade.

She said: "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."

The trust is now looking to further its mission following this historic win.

Chairman of the trust, Jamie Campbell, said: "Winning the Sultan Qaboos Trophy places the Excelsior Trust on the global stage and underscores the enduring value of our work.

"This is not just an award for the trust—it’s a recognition of the transformative power of sail training and the importance of preserving maritime heritage for future generations."