Learning for life through the sea
The R. Tucker Thompson is a tall ship based in the Bay of Islands, operated as a not-for-profit, we take Northland’s young people on life-changing 7-day voyages. Over summer, we operate daily sailing trips, profits from our tourism activities are used to fund our youth development voyages.
Nau mai, haere mai, welcome on board!
We run 7-day Youth Development Voyages for the young people (aged 14-18) of Taitokerau Northland. These are life changing experiences, designed to build confidence, create teamwork and develop leadership.
Support the youth of Northland by sailing with us this summer. Experience a day on the water on the R. Tucker Thompson, a traditional gaff-rigged schooner with her own unique history. Choose to make it an active adventure, help hoist the sails, climb the rigging or just relax with a cold drink.
Looking for something different to do for you and your group this summer? Why not charter an entire tall ship? We charter the ship out privately for groups and schools.
A early morning breeze welcomed us for our climb up the Dukes Nose, a peach coloured sunrise kissing our cheeks as we peered over the top. We sat there admiring the view of the harbour, the birds, the rugged terrain …
Our first morning began with Tucker’s traditional 7am swim. Only a little prodding needed before the deck was wet from huge manus and jumps from the rigging. After chores, breakie and a line handling lesson we raised anchor, set sail …
With a fresh breeze from the North and sunny skies we departed Opua wharf. Trainees and crew quickly raised sail and waved goodbye to whānau. As we headed to our first destination, ships business began with a thorough safety briefing …
