The Get Afloat! Fund has been set up by Chichester Harbour Conservancy to enable disadvantaged children to enjoy Chichester Harbour from the water. The trips will be taken on board the Conservancy’s solar-powered catamaran Solar Heritage which can take up to 50 passengers. All the trips will be offered with educational support from the Conservancy’s team of field teachers, helping the children to learn more about this unique Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Fund was inspired by the work undertaken by the Conservancy’s Education team over the last three years. The team built links with special needs schools and offered complimentary trips on the Solar Heritage as part of the school’s visit to Chichester Harbour. For many it was the first time they had had the experience of going on a boat. A local school for blind children and a group of children from Chernobyl were just some who benefited from the scheme which was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. As those funds are no longer available, local businesses have stepped in so that the scheme can continue under the name of the Get Afloat! Fund.

So far six businesses have sponsored trips. Other local businesses are now invited to get involved, sponsorship of a trip starts at just £200.

Peter White, owner of Seafever a powerboat training company operating in Chichester Harbour was one of the first to sponsor a trip. Peter said ‘Having spent many years sailing with young people from all walks of life, including the less able bodied, it is easy for me to appreciate the amazing benefit of taking the less advantaged afloat.  If you could see the expressions of joy on the faces of these youngsters you would not hesitate in helping more of them to go afloat.’

The Fund has already received support from; Peters Opal, Seafever International, Solent Sunbeams, Crouchers Country Hotel, Hayling Yacht Company and Wicks Farm Holiday Park.

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