ARRC Imjin Magazine Winter 25 | Page 13

A Week of Adventure on the Solent

Lt Col Fergus Sullivan MBE

In June 2025, a group of eight colleagues from ARRC embarked on an unforgettable weeklong sailing expedition in the Solent and its surrounding waters. Known as Exercise WYVERN ARRCADE SAIL( Ex WAS), the adventure was designed to develop leadership, resilience and teamwork while introducing some participants to the joys of offshore sailing. With two yachts, PETREL and TEAL, provided by the Joint Services Adventurous Sail Training Centre( JSASTC), the team set out from Gosport for a week of learning, camaraderie and exploration.

Setting Sail: The Journey Begins

The adventure started with safety training at the JSASTC facility in Gosport, where the crew familiarised themselves with the yachts and essential safety equipment. After loading supplies and completing presailing checks, the team set off for their first destination, Bucklers Hard on the River Beaulieu. The day provided an excellent opportunity for the crew, which included both experienced sailors and complete novices, to practise key skills such as reefing sails and short tacking. Despite some initial logistical hiccups, the team quickly found their rhythm and began to embrace the challenges of life at sea.

Exploring the Solent

Over the next five days, the group navigated some of the Solent’ s most iconic locations, including Newtown Creek, Yarmouth and Osborne Bay. Each destination offered unique challenges and learning opportunities. For example, the narrow entrance to Newtown Creek tested the crew’ s navigation skills, while the strong currents at Yarmouth Harbour provided valuable experience in boat handling. The expedition also included anchoring drills, dinghy exercises and a chance to sail past the famous Needles, offering stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.

The Solent’ s diverse conditions made it an ideal training ground. The quieter waters of the Western Solent allowed the crew to practise points of sail, while Osborne Bay provided a calm environment for more advanced techniques, such as sailing onto an anchor. Along the way, the team enjoyed the natural beauty and historic landmarks of the area, from the tranquil Beaulieu River to the grandeur of Osborne House.

Building Skills and Bonds

The expedition was a resounding success, with two novices earning their RYA Competent Crew qualifications. The structured training, combined with the natural challenges of the Solent, helped participants develop their sailing skills and gain confidence on the water. Beyond the technical aspects, the experience also fostered teamwork and resilience. Living and working together in close quarters, the crew overcame language barriers and personal differences to form a cohesive and supportive team.

A key element of the week was the opportunity for reflection. The group was encouraged to think about how the lessons learned on the water such as adaptability, communication and problem-solving that could be applied to their professional and personal lives. The camaraderie and mutual respect that developed during the expedition highlighted the value of such experiences in building strong, effective teams.

Lessons for the Future

While the week was a success, it also provided valuable lessons for future expeditions. Early and thorough planning proved essential, particularly when it came to logistics, medical arrangements and provisioning. The importance of clear delegation and pre-departure preparation was also emphasised, ensuring that everyone understood their roles and responsibilities.

The Solent itself was praised as an excellent location for sailing adventures. Destinations like Bucklers Hard, Yarmouth and Osborne Bay offered a mix of challenges and rewards, from

practising navigation in tidal waters to enjoying the peace and quiet of less crowded anchorages. The area’ s accessibility and well-equipped facilities made it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced sailors.

Conclusion

Exercise WYVERN ARRCADE SAIL 2025 was more than just a sailing trip it was an opportunity to learn, grow and connect. The combination of practical sailing instruction, personal reflection and team bonding made it a truly transformative experience for everyone involved. As the crew returned to Gosport, certificates in hand and spirits high, they carried with them not just memories of a successful voyage but also skills and insights that will serve them well in the future.

For anyone considering a sailing adventure, the Solent offers the perfect mix of challenge and accessibility. Whether you’ re a seasoned sailor or a complete novice, the area’ s stunning scenery, historic landmarks and diverse conditions make it an ideal destination. With a bit of planning and a willingness to embrace the unpredictable nature of the sea, a sailing expedition can be a life-changing experience just as it was for the crew of Ex WAS.