Irish Sailing is proud to celebrate and support Safe Haven Ireland as the organisation marks a decade of transforming young lives through the power of the ocean. For ten years, Safe Haven Ireland has opened the world of sailing to young people who might never otherwise step aboard a boat, building confidence, community, and connection along the way.
To mark this milestone, Safe Haven Ireland returned to where it all began with a youth sail-training voyage along Ireland’s rugged coastline. A group of eight young boys from three Sligo-based secondary schools took part in a five-day journey exploring the Cork coast aboard the Ilen, a 56ft traditional ketch built in 1926. The voyage was delivered in partnership with Sailing into Wellness, whose team created a supportive and welcoming environment for friendship, adventure, and meaningful personal development.
For Irish Sailing, supporting Safe Haven Ireland represents a commitment to widening access to the water and investing in the future of young people. The impact of the organisation’s work is clear, helping participants build resilience, leadership skills, and a strong sense of belonging.
Founded in 2015, Safe Haven Ireland has spent the past ten years creating opportunities for young people aged 12 to 25 to come together through shared experiences at sea. Their programmes bring together participants from a wide range of backgrounds, including those from migrant and ethnic minority communities and young people who have experienced the asylum system, alongside Irish-born participants.
This unique mix creates an environment where friendships are formed, perspectives are shared, and confidence grows. As Safe Haven Ireland celebrates this significant milestone, its continued work stands as a powerful example of how sailing can positively shape lives and strengthen communities across Ireland.