Sail Traning International

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

Join the Blue Flag Sail Training Vessel Certification Scheme Pilot Phase (2025)

Charting a Course for Sustainable Excellence

The Blue Flag is a globally recognized symbol of excellence in environmental sustainability and responsible practices. Building upon its success across beaches, marinas, and tourism boats, we are thrilled to announce the launch of a pioneering initiative: the Blue Flag Sail Training Vessel Certification Scheme. This program aims to promote sustainability, responsible governance, and environmental stewardship within the world of sail training and tall ships.

As part of this exciting journey, we are inviting Sail Training Vessels and Tall Ships to participate in the pilot phase of this innovative certification scheme during the 2025 sailing season. This is your opportunity to play an integral role in shaping the future of sustainable sail training.

“ “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’.”
— Johann Durand, Blue Flag International Director

Why join the Pilot Phase?

Becoming part of the Blue Flag Sail Training Vessel Certification Pilot Phase offers a unique opportunity to:

  • Shape the standards: Contribute directly to finalizing the draft criteria by providing valuable feedback based on your experience.

  • Pioneer best practices: Demonstrate your leadership in responsible sailing and environmental stewardship.

  • Receive international recognition: Vessels involved in the pilot will be highlighted in Blue Flag communications, including newsletters and early promotional campaigns.

  • Engage your crew and trainees: Reinforce a culture of sustainability among your crew and participants.

What to expect during the Pilot Phase?

As a participant, your vessel will be asked to apply the draft Blue Flag criteria from 1st August 2025 to 1st November 2025. This includes:

  • Implementing and documenting environmental practices: Apply sustainable sailing practices and document them.

  • Providing feedback: Share your thoughts on the criteria's clarity, feasibility, and impact using the draft application form provided.

  • Sharing success stories and challenges: Help refine the scheme by sharing your experiences and lessons learned.

For any assistance or queries, you can contact:

EU Environmental Labeling and Future Requirements

The European Union is advancing new regulations to harmonise environmental labeling across the tourism and transport sectors. These regulations will likely include:

  • Stricter transparency requirements for sustainability claims.

  • Harmonised criteria for eco-certifications.

  • Expectations for measurable impacts and third-party verification.

Engaging in the Blue Flag pilot phase will position your vessel at the forefront of these upcoming changes. This initiative aligns proactively with evolving EU policies, ensuring that your participation today will help you stay compliant with future regulations and maintain a competitive edge.

Marketing & promotion benefits

Participants in the Blue Flag Sail Training Vessel Certification Pilot Phase will enjoy:

  • Featured placement: Get highlighted in Blue Flag newsletters and social media campaigns.

  • Special insignia: Use the "Pilot Phase Participant" insignia on your vessel and online presence, showcasing your commitment to sustainability.

How to Apply

Are you ready to chart a course for a sustainable future and contribute to the next chapter of the Blue Flag programme? If so, we want to hear from you!

To submit your expression of interest and to receive all documentation, please email Mike Bowles mike.bowles@sailtraininginternational.org , with the subject line: Blue Flag Sail Training Vessels Pilot Phase by the 31st of August 2025.

Feedback from the pilot test phase must be received by 10th November 2025 at the latest.

For any questions or additional information, don't hesitate to reach out to:

For questions or further information, please contact us: 

Please cc blue.flag@sailtraininginternational.org

Let’s raise the standard together!

Join us in steering the course toward a greener, more inspiring world of sail training. Together, we can raise the bar for sustainable excellence.

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