Four young people will get the chance to experience life at sea through a new bursary competition for Bangor University students and the wider local community.
The Spirit of Shackleton, in partnership with Stena Line, is launching a new bursary competition to give four young people from Bangor University and the wider Holyhead and Anglesey area the chance to take part in an inspiring sailing voyage.
The competition will offer two places to Bangor University students and two to young people from the wider community. It is open to candidates aged 18–25 and is not linked to any one race. No previous sailing experience is required.
The partnership brings together Stena Line’s strong connection to Holyhead, Bangor University’s work in ocean science and research, and the Spirit of Shackleton’s commitment to connecting people with the ocean through exploration, education and adventure.
Naomh McElhatton, Executive Director of the Atlantic Shackleton Global Foundation, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Stena Line and Bangor University to bring this opportunity to young people across the area. We want to hear from people who are curious about the sea and ready to challenge themselves. You don’t need sailing experience. What matters is your attitude, your willingness to learn and how you work with others. Time at sea can build confidence, resilience and teamwork in a way few other experiences can. We hope these bursaries will inspire young people to discover what sailing might bring to their lives.”
Johan Edelman, Trade Director at Stena Line, said:
“As a ferry operator and port owner, Stena Line has a long-standing relationship with Holyhead and the communities we serve, so we’re delighted to support an initiative that gives young people the opportunity to challenge themselves and experience life at sea. We hope these bursaries will help build confidence, resilience and teamwork, while inspiring young people to discover more about the maritime industry and the exciting career opportunities available within it.”
About the bursary
Successful candidates will join the crew of the Spirit of Shackleton for a sail-training and voyage experience. The berth, food, training and required safety equipment will be funded through the bursary. Candidates will be responsible for their own travel to and from the vessel’s departure point.
Voyage dates, departure arrangements and application deadlines will be shared with applicants.
Who can apply?
The competition is open to people aged 18 – 25 who are:
- Students at Bangor University; or
- From the wider Holyhead and Anglesey area.
Sailing experience is welcome but not essential. The organisers are looking for applicants who demonstrate curiosity, positivity, teamwork, determination and a willingness to learn. Applications from young people who may never have considered sailing before are especially welcome.
How to apply
Applicants should send a short written application to naomh@atlanticshackleton.org with the subject line “Stena Bursary Application”. Deadline Friday 27th November 2026.
Please explain:
- Why you would like to take part;
- What adventure, teamwork and challenge mean to you;
- How you think the experience could shape your future; and
- Any relevant sporting, outdoor, community, school, family, work or leadership experience.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to take part in a selection and sail-training activity before final places are awarded. Selection arrangements will be shared with applicants on the 11th December 2026.
This is an invitation to step outside your comfort zone, discover the sea and see what you can do as part of a crew.
