Celebrating Women in Sailing this International Women’s Day!

 

 

 

Celebrating Women in Sailing this International Women’s Day! 

 

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the incredible women who have made waves in the world of sailing, navigating uncharted waters, breaking records, and inspiring us all. From racing across oceans to commanding ships and embracing the freedom of the sea, women have consistently demonstrated that they possess the resilience, skill, and passion necessary to be sailors and mariners.

We honor these fearless women who have faced the wind, conquered the tides, and proven that the sea belongs to everyone. 

 

West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation encourages women to learn how to sail

The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation’s ambition is to encourage and empower women to join the world of sailing. One of the WISH Foundation’s key initiatives is the opportunity for women to participate in sail training on their traditional Carriacou sloop, “New Moon”. The aim is to foster an inclusive environment where women can learn to sail, navigate, and be part of the race crew, whether they are experienced sailors or absolute beginners.

One of the leading advocates for women in sailing is Charlotte Hooijdonk, co-founder of the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation. Charlotte has become an ambassador for women in the sailing community, inspiring countless individuals to follow their passion for the sea. In 2000, Charlotte made a bold decision to change her career path, leaving her management career behind to pursue a career in sailing. She earned her RYA Ocean Master certification and sailed professionally as a second officer on Tall Ships and Classic yachts in the USA, Australia, Europe, and the Caribbean.

Second Star Sailing launched the WOMEN AT THE HELM program

One of the WISH Foundation’s key collaborations is with Second Star Sailing www.secondstarsailing.com in Antigua, which launched the WOMEN AT THE HELM program. This program provides a supportive learning environment, with female instructors guiding and encouraging women to build their sailing skills. In addition to this, Second Star Sailing has developed an Apprenticeship Program, designed to help Antiguan women begin or further their careers in the blue economy. This initiative has already led to several Antiguan women joining the WISH Foundation’s race crew for the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta and becoming sail trainees in the GO to SEA program.

For more info about the WOMEN AT THE HELM PROGRAM go to the website 

https://secondstarsailing.com/women-at-the-helm/

The power of teamwork

The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation is committed to achieving equal participation of male and female sailors in their sail training programs and race team. The WISH Foundation firmly believes in the power of teamwork and strives to create an environment that allows women to develop their individual strengths while also being strong team players. By participating in these programs, women not only learn the technical aspects of sailing but also gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills that will serve them in all areas of life.

 

Join us today and learn how to sail!

If you are between the ages of 13 and 23 and have ever dreamed of learning how to sail? 

The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation offers sail training every Saturday in Falmouth Harbour from 10 AM to 2 PM. The lessons take place aboard our traditional Carriacou sloop, “New Moon”, and are designed to teach young sailors in a fun and supportive environment.

For more information, please visit our website at www.caribwish.com/contact/ and complete the contact form, or contact Billy directly via WhatsApp at +1-268-7763484.

 

Let’s celebrate the women who continue to shape the world of sailing and inspire the next generation to take the helm.

Set Sail in the Wake of Tradition

A Thrilling Sailing and Cultural Exchange for

Antiguan and Swedish Youth!

 

On Monday, February 24th, and Tuesday, February 25th, fourty-five enthusiastic students aged 15-19 from Jennings Secondary School, Antigua State College, and Island Academy embarked on an unforgettable sailing day aboard the majestic Tall Ship Gunilla.

 

Under the expert guidance of skilled Swedish sail trainees and the dedicated crew, the students were set to work, pulling the lines and hoisting the sails of this beautiful square-rigger. For many of these Antiguan students, it was their first time on the open sea, and they loved the experience. Their laughter echoing across the waves as they forged new friendships with their Swedish counterparts.

As they sailed the vast blue ocean, they learned to navigate the winds and exchanged stories and traditions, creating bonds that transcend borders.
The sense of camaraderie and adventure inspired a spark in many, igniting dreams of mastering the art of sailing and perhaps one day working aboard a traditional ship like Gunilla!

 

 

The Swedish sail trainees participated in the inspiring “Classroom to Community” program. Their morning was ignited by the impactful plastic upcycling workshop, “Ocean Love NO Plastic No Waste” and a beach clean organized by the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation. Here, they not only learned about the critical issue of plastic pollution affecting our beautiful oceans but were also introduced to the powerful 4 R’s: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

The Swedish students collaborated with the dedicated team from the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation to creatively upcycle plastic waste into new, valuable products, transforming potential waste into treasures. This experience went beyond education; it sparked a passion for environmental stewardship and community engagement.

 

In the afternoon, under the inspirational guidance of the Antigua and Barbuda National Park, they ventured into the historic Nelson’s Dockyard, deepening their appreciation for its significant role in maritime history.
This day was not just a learning experience; it was a call to action, inspiring them to become stewards of their environment and champions of change for a brighter future.

 

A huge thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners for making this extraordinary experience possible!

Tall Ship Gunilla: http://www.ockerogymnasieskola.se

Caribbean Sail Training: http://www.caribbeansailtraining.com

 Antigua & Barbuda National Park: http://www.nationalparksantigua.com

 

 

 

 

Organisers

The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation provides weekly sail training on its traditional Carriacou sloop, New Moon, and represents Caribbean Sail Training (CST) in Antigua. Caribbean Sail Training is dedicated to fostering connections among youth through the love of sailing and Tall Ship Gunilla is a proud member of CST.

Ready to set sail? Are you an Antiguan Youngster between 13-23 and like to learn how to sail on our traditional Carriacou Sloop “New Moon”? For more information about sail training and the opportunities awaiting you, contact us via our website or contact Billy from the WISH Foundation on WhatsApp at 1-268-7763484.

Donate! Help us teach more young Antiguans!

 

Tall Ship Gunilla was launched in 1940 as a long-haul cargo ship. Except for a short time in the 50s, when the ship acted as a ferry, transporting people and cars to Öland, she was sailing with the cargo until the 90s. In 1997 Gunilla was rebuilt entirely into a 3-masted barque. She has since been active at a Swedish college, where social studies students aged 18-19 years spend 60 days each year as a part of their education, learning to sail, cooperate, and become aware of the world situation. She completes a lap around the Northern Atlantic annually and visits the Caribbean in February and March.

 

 

This Garden Bench is Made from 16,667 Waste Oasis Bottle Caps!

 

 

 

This Garden Bench is Made from 16,667 Waste Oasis Bottle Caps!

 

 

Are you passionate about sustainability and looking for a unique addition to your garden? Look no further! The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation is proud to introduce a one-of-a-kind garden bench made from an astonishing 16,667 recycled Oasis bottle caps. This bench isn’t just a piece of outdoor furniture—it’s a symbol of environmental responsibility and creative innovation. And the best part? It’s up for grabs at just EC$ 675! If you want to own this eco-friendly masterpiece, act fast and contact Billy from the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation today via WhatsApp 1-268-7763484 or send an email to info@caribwish.com

 

A Bench with a Purpose: Reducing Plastic Waste

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. Every year, millions of plastic bottle caps find their way into the ocean, causing harm to marine life and disrupting delicate ecosystems. There is no such thing as away. When you throw something away, it must go somewhere. Refusing single-use plastic and trying to Reuse are the best actions. The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation repurposing these bottle caps into durable and functional furniture.

This garden bench is not just about recycling—it’s about reimagining waste as a resource. Through the Ocean Love NO Plastic NO Waste workshop, based in Falmouth Harbour in Antigua, Billy and his team are demonstrating how plastic waste can be transformed into high-quality, long-lasting products.

 

The Process: From Waste to Wonder

So, how exactly is this stunning bench made? It all starts with collecting thousands of discarded plastic bottle caps. Antigua and Barbuda Waste Recycling Cooperation (ABWREC) is the biggest supplier of waste bottle caps next to individuals and retailers who collect caps for us. The caps which would have otherwise ended up in landfills or the ocean, are shredded and processed using an innovative extruder machine from Plasticpreneur www.plasticpreneur.com. This machine melts the granulates and pushes this melted plastic in long rectangular moulds, shaping durable planks and beams. The beams and planks are then skillfully assembled into a sturdy and stylish garden bench. Every garden bench is unique and handmade in our Ocean Love NO Plastic NO Waste workshop.

The result? A weather-resistant, eco-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing bench that tells a story of sustainability and innovation. Every time you sit on it, you’ll be reminded of the incredible potential of recycling and the importance of protecting our environment.

 

Why You Need This Bench in Your Garden?

Owning this bench is more than just an investment in outdoor decor—it’s a commitment to a cleaner planet. Here’s why this bench is a must-have:

  1. Eco-Friendly: Made entirely from upcycled plastic, this bench prevents waste from polluting our environment.
  2. Durable & Long-Lasting: Unlike traditional wooden or metal benches, plastic benches are resistant to rust, rot, termites and weather damage.
  3. One-of-a-Kind Design: you own a truly unique handmade piece, made in Antigua that stands out in any garden.
  4. Support a Worthy Cause: Your purchase helps fund the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation’s ongoing efforts to upcycle plastic waste and organize the environmental school program Ocean Love NO Plastic NO Waste.
  5. Conversation Starter: Be the proud owner of a bench with a powerful message—perfect for sparking conversations about sustainability with family and friends.

 

A Community Effort

This incredible initiative wouldn’t have been possible without the support of organizations dedicated to environmental protection. Special thanks to Antigua and Barbuda Waste Recycling Cooperation (ABWREC) for supplying the bottle caps, GEF SGP Antigua and Barbuda for the support via the Small Grant Fund https://www.facebook.com/GEFSGPAntiguaBarbuda/, and ECAB Antigua https://www.ecabank.com/home/  for their invaluable contributions in making this project a reality. Their support has been instrumental in bringing innovative recycling solutions to life and spreading awareness about the importance of reducing plastic waste.

 

Be Part of the Change

Sustainability starts with small actions that collectively make a big impact. Whether it’s reducing plastic use, supporting upcycling projects, or spreading awareness about environmental issues, every effort counts. By purchasing this bench, you’re not just buying furniture—you’re making a statement that waste can be transformed into something beautiful and functional.

Let’s continue to protect our oceans, one bottle cap at a time. Be a part of the change. Get your unique garden bench today!

Whatsapp Billy Now to order your bench! 1-268-7763484 or contact us via this link https://www.caribwish.com/contact/

 

 

Global Recycling Day 2024.

 

 

A Call to Action for a Sustainable Future.

Global Recycling Day is a beacon of hope and a reminder of our collective responsibility towards the planet. March 18th, 2024 is a global call to action to promote recycling and raise awareness about its crucial role in preserving our environment.

The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation started the “Ocean Love NO Plastic NO Waste” program in 2021 to address the issue of plastic waste polluting our oceans. We believe that each person has the power to make a difference through simple yet impactful habits such as Refusing, Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling.

The WISH Foundation organizes school environmental programs that include guest lectures, assignments, field trips to the plastic upcycle workshop, and beach cleaning. These programs are designed to raise awareness about the environmental impact of plastic waste and promote responsible consumption among students through engaging workshops and interactive sessions.

 

The Ocean Love NO Plastic NO Waste workshop not only addresses the pressing issue of plastic waste and pollution but also turns trash into treasure. With the support of GEF Small Grants Programme Antigua & Barbuda we were able to purchase Plastic Upcycle machines from plasticpreneur.

In our workshop, we have a grinder, an injection molding machine, and an extruder. All the machines from the Plastic Preneur are small-scale and suitable for community projects and educational purposes.

 

 

On Global Recycling Day 2024, we hosted an open day event for the residents of Antigua and Barbuda to come and experience our “Ocean Love NO Plastic NO Waste workshop.” During the event, we showcased the process of transforming waste plastic bottle caps into valuable products. Visitors had the opportunity to witness firsthand the creation of flower pots from these recycled bottle caps.

The success of the Plastic Upcycling Workshop is built on collaboration and community engagement. The WISH Foundation works closely together with Abwrec – Antigua Barbuda Waste Recycling Corporation to collect plastic waste and sort the bottle caps for us. Our unique upcycled products are available for purchase at the Adoptacoastline shop in Falmouth.

 

Address Ocean Love NO Plastic NO Waste workshop: Mainroad Falmouth Antigua and Barbuda, (Hawkins Storage Units next to Sweet-Ts).

For more info Whatsapp or Call Billy at +1-268-7763484.

www.caribwish.com

Let’s work together to create a future where waste is not viewed as a problem, but as a precious resource to be transformed and reused.

Watch our video about Global Recycling Day 2024!

https://youtu.be/DVKDDuDTUBw

 

 

 

 

Antiguan sail trainees Ryanne and Shanae sailed on traditional brigantine Florette!

 

 

Antiguan sail trainees Ryanne and Shanae sailed on traditional brigantine Florette!

Look at us sailing on the beautiful Florette – Historic tallship sailing ltd

Antiguan sail trainees Ryanne and Shanae accompanied by Charlotte from the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation went on a sailing adventure from      St Maarten to Antigua on traditional brigantine “Florette” from March 2nd to March 8th, 2024. We learned how to sail a traditional vessel, worked together to hoist the sails, and received lessons in knots, splicing, and whipping. You require GIRL POWER to set the sails and bravery to climb the mast. Thank you, Captain Ron and Florette crew for this great experience.

West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation www.caribwish.com is a member of Caribbean Sail Training and the official representative for sail training in Antigua.

Caribbean Sail Training selects cooperating Tall ships, square riggers, cargo ships, large yachts, and even superyachts and  race boats, that take youngsters on a sail training trip. Many Caribbean youth or their parents may not have the financial means to provide their youngsters with a sail training adventure. CST arranges berths on ships, the funds ( as each sail training vessel needs money to keep working and exist ), and arranges paperwork and communication with the ship.

www.caribbeansailtraining.com

This year the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation launched the “GO to SEA” program in collaboration with Caribbean Sail Training and with the support of Sail Training International.

The program aims to assist young people in Antigua youngsters in developing sailing and teamwork skills, gaining experience sailing on a Tall Ship, and exploring potential maritime-based career training opportunities, and discovering employment possibilities in the maritime industry.

Sail Training International is providing sail training to young people around the world inspiring them to grow in confidence, rise to challenges, overcome fears, and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime. Sail Training International encourages youth development while supporting efforts towards international friendship and understanding. STI creates opportunities for young people from different backgrounds – especially those with fewer opportunities – to take part in Tall Ships Events through funds and bursaries.

www.sailtraininginternational.org

 

Ryanne and Shanae joined last year the WISH Foundation and participated in Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta on our Carriacou Sloop “New Moon”. Ryanne followed the Women at the Helm Internship program for local Antiguan females at Second Star Sailing Caribbean. Shanae is an instructor at the National Sailing Academy.

Follow us or Call/WhatsApp Billy at +1-268-7763484 from the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation for more information about sail training and the “GO to SEA” program.

Donate! Help us teach more young Antiguans!