FOUR tall ships made port in Glasgow today in the latest leg of a challenge for young seafaring apprentices.
186 apprentices from across the world have made their way from Liverpool to Glasgow as a part of the Apprentice Ship Cup Challenge.
The cup challenges trainees from all over the UK, Europe and as far afield as China, to prove their mettle at sea through teamwork and cooperation.
The specially commissioned tall ships were launched in Liverpool on June 7 by maritime charity the Merseyside Adventure Sailing Trust (MAST), and made port today in Glasgow for the first time ever.
Apprentice Marc Houston, who is based at Peel Ports Hunterston terminal, is one of the young trainees taking part in the challenge.
During his six days and seven nights at sea, the challenge is designed to develop his individual and team working skills at the helm of a tall ship.
The 22 year old arrived into Glasgow with five other apprentices from Peel Ports Liverpool on board the Pelican of London on June 19.
Marc said: “This is the first I have ever done anything like this and I am really looking forward to seeing what the next few days at sea will bring.
“Hopefully I will learn lots of new skills, which I can use during my apprenticeship and make some new friends in the process.”
Jim Graves, MAST chair said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to build character strengths and develop skills in leadership, communication and self-confidence.
“Last year’s challenge was an outstanding success, thanks not only to the hard work of the apprentices who took part, but the support of companies such as Peel Ports. As a result this year’s event is even bigger and better calling at more destinations.
“I am thrilled to be able to take our tall ships and crews to Glasgow for the first time ever and hope they enjoy the culture and heritage that the city and Scotland has to offer.
