Sultanate of Oman Bursary Scheme

Funding is available for young people interested in experiencing sailing in a Tall Ships Race. Sail Training International has created a bursary scheme in partnership with the Sultanate of Oman to provide opportunities to trainees who need additional support. Read more below.

The Sultanate of Oman Bursary scheme is available to any young person (aged between 15-25) regardless of background, physical ability or sailing experience.

The scheme was trialled at The Tall Ships Races 2011 which saw 25 trainees from seven countries take part in the final race leg from Stavanger, Norway to Halmstad, Sweden. Some trainees were experiencing sailing for the first time.

The Sultanate of Oman Bursary Scheme will help fund up to 100 young people each year from around the world to benefit from the life-changing experience gained from participation in races and regattas organised by Sail Training International.

The Sultanate of Oman will invest €50,000 to assist young people each year with a particular emphasis on those who are financially disadvantaged or with a physical disability. A maximum of €500 will be awarded to each selected trainee.

Oman has a long-standing relationship with events organised by Sail Training International and a commitment to youth development. The name of the Navy of Oman's own ship, Shabab Oman, means 'Youth of Oman' and the ship has won our prestigious International Friendship Trophy no fewer than eight times! A huge achievement as the trophy is decided via a secret ballot voted by the participating Captains and their crews.

How to apply:

If you are interested in finding out more about how you can receive support to take part in a fantastic life changing experience at sea, please complete and submit the enquiry form below. You don't know if you don't try!

Charlotte Emilie Olaussen, 18, from Stavanger (Norway) sailed on Prolific from Stavanger to Halmstad (Sweden) as part of The Tall Ships Races 2011.

Charlotte Emilie Olaussen, 18, from Stavanger (Norway) sailed on Prolific from Stavanger to Halmstad (Sweden) as part of The Tall Ships Races 2011.

"Thanks to the Sultanate of Oman for making this possible. I'd never been sailing before but had the most amazing time and made life-long friends.  It was so exciting and I learned so much.  My advice to anyone interested in sailing is don't be afraid and go for it as sailing on a Tall Ship is so much fun! Just make sure you don't pack too much and take good shoes!"

Application Form

(applicants must be aged between 15 and 25)
Please check carefully so that we can contact you
Please indicate which section(s) of The Tall Ships Races 2012 you wish to sail on



(maximum €500)
(e.g. teacher, youth worker etc - please do not give relatives)
Why do you want to take part in a Tall Ships Race?
What, if any, sailing experience do you have?It doesn't matter if you don't have any sailing experience
Why do you require a bursary and how are you going to raise the remainder of the voyage fee?
Please list any holidays you have had away from home during the past two years
Please use the check boxes below if you have a preferred vessel you would like to sail on
If you have a preference for a vessel you would like to sail on that is not listed above, please provide the name

Please note - items marked with * are compulsory fields