A 23-year-old north-east hotel manager has set sail on the tall ship Lord Nelson for the voyage of a lifetime.
Christopher Watson, 23, from Peterculter, volunteered for the week-long trip from Aberdeen to the Isle of Man aboard the unique vessel operated by the Jubilee Sailing Trust (JST).
He will participate in the JST’s Leadership at Sea programme which helps equip youngsters with essential life skills that can aid future career development.
The voyage is sponsored by SFF Services Ltd, the wholly-owned subsidiary of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation which provides a range of specialised services to the marine industries, particularly the offshore oil and gas industry.
As well as his job as a hotel manager, Christopher runs his own catering company, Fusion Hog Roast, and is a regional and national scouting leader.
Having previously taken part in the Tall Ships Race between Greenock and Inverness and volunteered for the Ocean Youth Trust, he is no stranger to sailing.
He said: “During my time with Ocean Youth I did some amazing voyages with under-privileged young people and it is amazing how a week away really changes them. I would love to talk about that further on board.
“Sailing and the isolation it provides can really change people very fast – it’s such a powerful thing.
“The trip will also give me an opportunity to promote the Jubilee Sailing Trust within scouting.”
The aim of JST is to provide life-changing adventures to people of all ages, backgrounds and levels of physical ability. Their voyages change lives by improving self-esteem, building confidence and providing leadership and other skills.
Josephine Hall of JST said: “SFF Services has supported the work of the JST for many years and we are thrilled to be sailing from their home port and to be able to take a young local person to join us on the trip.”
Derek Duthie, SFFSL finance director, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring Christopher’s place aboard the Lord Nelson. It is a fantastic opportunity for him to work as part of a team and to learn.”