The Sea Challenge program is the primary reason we raise money. Since 1998, Sail Portsmouth has enabled hundreds of high school students to benefit from sail training, an experiential/adventure education program held at sea aboard working tall ships. Sail training programs similar to Sea Challenge are held around the world for students of all ages. Sea Challenge focuses on underserved high school students from New Hampshire, southern Maine, and eastern Massachusetts seacoasts. Each Sea Challenge student crew is made up of youth from a diverse set of backgrounds.
“Sea Challenge students learn what they can do, not what they’ve been told they cannot do.”
– Chad Chadwick, Former Board Chair, Sail Portsmouth
Students learn what it means to live and work alongside strangers 24/7 aboard a traditionally rigged vessel, developing resilience and independence in the process.
- Every member of a Sea Challenge voyage is relied upon, respected, and integral to the crew’s success.
- They push past fears, discover their strengths, and learn to depend on one another —building real teamwork and genuine care for their shipmates
- Alumni consistently describe the Sea Challenge as “awesome,” “fun,” and “life-changing” — an experience that stays with them long after they return to shore.
Any donation of $1,000 and above qualifies the donor for an individual Sail Portsmouth membership. As a member, you will receive our digital newsletter and notices of upcoming events via email.
Sail Portsmouth is a registered 501(c)(3) and our ID Number is 02-0496393. All monetary and in-kind donations are tax-deductible. Sail Portsmouth can provide official documentation upon request.
