News Shopper journalist Toby Nation recently swapped life in the newsroom for life on the ocean wave (nearly) when he set sail aboard a tall ship on the River Thames.

The reporter embarked on his voyage of discovery in pursuit of a feature about the work of the Tall Ships Youth Trust, and after finding his sea legs on board The Prince William, he re-told his adventure to readers.

He said: "Once on board, we were made aware of lifejackets, life-rafts and the fire drill.

"We had a crash course in the complex rigging of a tall ship from bosun Fliss Green who, with the help of some complex models, tried to explain the difference between spankers, yards, clewlines and setting the sails."

And after a few practice runs, Toby was well on his way to learning the ropes.

He said: "Turning with the wind behind us, we set off and after much huffing and puffing from the landlubber crew we suddenly had a feel for tall ship sailing.

"We had the chance to climb the rigging and walk along the spars the horizontal supports the sails hang from.

"Thankfully, harnesses and secure safety wires were on hand, and despite the unnerving feeling of standing so high above the water, the views were breathtaking and the feeling of being under sail incredible peaceful.

"Although the trip only took in the Thames and never allowed us to unfurl all the sails, it was a great way to experience the magic of tall ships."

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