To train the sailors of tomorrow

In 2011, The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and Sail Training International joined forces to promote FEE’s Blue Flag programme to help protect the world’s marine environment.

The programme, known as the Sail Training International Blue Flag Scheme, is open to sail training vessels that belong to Sail Training International’s national member organisations and others that participate in sail training Tall Ships events. 

The SAGRES Ship in the Parade of Sail during The Tall Ships Races 2006 in Lisbon

The SAGRES Ship in the Parade of Sail during The Tall Ships Races 2006 in Lisbon

Participating vessel operators sign a Code of Conduct that applies to everyone on board to minimise their impact on the marine environment both at sea and in port.

 “The marine environment is deteriorating almost everywhere around the world and people who go to sea have an important role in its protection. We are delighted to have Sail Training International’s support and look forward to working through them with vessel operators and the young trainee crew members to really ‘make a difference’.
— Sophie Bachet Granados, former Blue Flag International Director
“The Blue Flag programme began 23 years ago mainly to help clean up beaches and harbours. More recently it has been extended to ship and boat owners. The sail training world, both owners and trainee crew members, will want to do all they can to minimise pollution at sea. We plan to give this our full support.
— Nigel Rowe, former Chairman of Sail Training International

Sail Training International and the Foundation for Environmental Education are working directly with vessel operators, and through the 26 national sail training organisations around the world as well as Sail Training International’s International Youth Forum. 

 For more information on the Sail Training International Blue Flag Scheme click here.