Full Circle Voyage: A Transformative Expedition for Veterans
Introduction to the Full Circle Voyage
In a remarkable initiative set to embark in March 2026, Falmouth’s own veteran sailing charity, Turn to Starboard, has joined forces with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 for the “Full Circle” voyage. This epic 12-week sailing adventure will cover a staggering 2,000 miles around the UK, crewed by 70 wounded, injured, or sick veterans. The aim? To showcase the healing power of teamwork and adventure in the lives of those who have served.
A Unique Partnership
The partnership between Turn to Starboard and Invictus Games is a natural fit. Both organizations are committed to supporting veterans in their journey toward recovery and reintegration. Turn to Starboard, with its focus on sailing as a therapeutic tool, brings a wealth of experience to the project. This collaboration is not just about sailing; it’s about rebuilding confidence and fostering a sense of community among participants.
Crewed by Inspiration
One of the highlights of this expedition is the involvement of Craig Wood, a record-setting sailor who made history as the first triple amputee to sail solo across the Pacific Ocean. His inspirational journey serves as a beacon of hope for many, illustrating that physical limitations do not define capability. His participation emphasizes the expedition’s aim—proving that adventure, even in the face of adversity, is possible.
The Voyage Details
The “Full Circle” voyage will be split into five distinct legs, utilizing two traditionally-rigged tall ships: Pellew and Spirit of Falmouth. Both vessels will be skippered and crewed by Turn to Starboard’s experienced team as they sail anti-clockwise around the UK. The voyage will commence from Falmouth and culminate back in the same bay in June 2026.
The Route and Experience
The planned journey promises breathtaking scenery, rich maritime history, and opportunities for meaningful interactions among crew members. Each leg of the voyage will not only serve as a means of travel but as a platform for renewed friendships and deep personal growth. Participants will face challenges together, learning essential sailing skills, navigating life at sea, and forming lifelong bonds along the way.
A Mission of Healing
Sally Terry, expedition lead and CEO of Turn to Starboard, eloquently expresses the expedition’s purpose: “This remarkable expedition is more than a voyage—it’s a powerful story of courage, service, and renewal.” The therapeutic power of sailing allows veterans to reconnect with themselves and others, reinforcing both mental and emotional healing.
By immersing participants in a non-clinical environment, this expedition hopes to uncover their potential while highlighting the numerous challenges many veterans face, including PTSD, depression, and isolation.
Fundraising Goals and Support
To sustain this transformative effort, the expedition aims to raise $300,000. These funds will support veterans in overcoming their adversities and contribute to Turn to Starboard’s goal of expanding their fleet with the additional purchase of the Pellew.
Dan Fielding, a former Royal Marine and Chief Operating Officer of Turn to Starboard, stresses the urgency, stating, “We have so many veterans who need our help.” The financial contributions will play a vital role in facilitating this unique opportunity and ensuring ongoing support for those who have served.
A Symbolic Gesture
A unique feature of the Full Circle voyage is that the expedition will sail with the Invictus Games flag flying high. This is particularly symbolic as the Invictus Games will kick off in Birmingham just a year after the expedition returns on June 11, 2026. The connection reinforces the values of resilience and camaraderie that both events champion, providing a poignant backdrop to the veterans’ journeys.
Follow the Adventure
For those wishing to witness the journey firsthand, the expedition will be extensively documented across various platforms. You can follow their adventures on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook under the handle @fullcirclet2s, where updates and stories from the sea will be shared with an eager public.
Engaging with the Full Circle voyage allows us to celebrate not only the challenges faced by veterans but also their strengths and triumphs. The narrative of healing through adventure is one we can all rally behind, adding a human touch to the story of resilience and unity forged on the high seas.