Challenges facing sail training post-Covid highlighted in new ’State of the Nation’ analysis, as Tall Ships Global sets sail
Tall Ships Global is delighted to announce the launch of its new business solution for the international world of Tall Ships events, regattas and festivals, together with a new website www.TallShipsGlobal.com. Tall Ships Global, led by Paul Bishop MBE - previously Race Director at Sail Training International - is a new consultancy company that is able to provide expert advice and support, drawing on unparalleled experience through its advisory board.

Like many sectors, sail training faces many challenges in the post-Covid world, but also some opportunities. Peter Cardy OBE, Chair of the Tall Ships Global advisory board and a previous CEO of the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency, has published a ‘state of the nation’ analysis of these challenges and opportunities on http://www.tallshipsglobal.com/blogs/SailTrain21.html. He highlights:

• There is a strong case for resuming sail training as soon as possible, to help offset some of the worst consequences of the disease and repeated lockdowns
• Uncertainties resulting from the pandemic and national and local responses have changed the outlook of many sail training organisations, some of which have made major adaptations.
• Optimism and realism are essential partners: thinking the worst is not the worst kind of thinking.
• Financial jeopardy is serious, arbitrary and unpredictable: know-how and financial help will be needed to enable STOs to survive and if possible, prosper.
• The harm resulting from lockdowns is clear: the benefits of sail training need to be restated vigorously.
• The long pause is an opportunity to rethink how sail training can become truly inclusive and adopt new and more adaptive models. 

Executive Director, Paul Bishop MBE, says: ‘2020 has been a challenging year for all of us and there is no doubt that our industry is having to be increasingly responsive, creative and innovative to ensure its future. We’re looking forward to bringing sail training vessel operators, Tall Ships friendly ports and maritime event organisers, closer together so that they respond effectively to the challenges. Tall Ships Global is an agile and collaborative new business that is developing fresh and exciting ways of supporting the international Tall Ships community’.

Chair of the Advisory Board, Peter Cardy OBE, says: ’In spite of the challenges we are all facing, there is definitely room for optimism, and I know that with Paul at the helm, Tall Ships Global will support the sector to develop innovative ways of working. While the ’new normal’ will not look like the old one, we are determined that people, young and old, should continue to be able to enjoy all the freedom and adventure that sail training offers.’
About Tall Ships Global
Tall Ships Global provides advice, support and event management for Tall Ships races, regattas, festivals and other events.

Paul Bishop MBE Phone: +44 (0) 239 319 0177

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