Local Non-Profit’s Program Draws School Group from South Korea
June 24, 2025
This June, the Sail and Life Training Society (SALTS) welcomed a group of youth visiting from Seoul, South Korea aboard the tall ship, Pacific Swift, for 5 days of sailing BC’s coast.
Students embarked on an unforgettable adventure on the Salish Sea, with time before and after their voyage to stay in, dine around, and explore Downtown Victoria. During the voyage, they participated in the sail training and mentorship program run by SALTS, a Victoria-based organization.
Over the course of 5 days, students navigated coastal waters, gained nautical skills, enjoyed the nature surrounding them, and engaged in meaningful conversations with others on board.
SALTS’ voyages provide opportunity for ~1700 youth each year to build confidence, grow in community, and take part in all aspects of life aboard sailing vessels. SALTS trips provide experiential learning and outdoor education aboard their two tall ships (Pacific Grace and
Pacific Swift) for youth ages 13-24. This includes hands-on involvement in raising and lowering sails, launching and rowing dories, plotting courses, steering the ships, weighing anchor, and standing watch. Along the way, young people develop teamwork, relational skills, and personal responsibility.
Many groups within Canada travel to take part in SALTS trips, but this is the first group to have travelled this far (approx. 8,200 km) to experience what SALTS has to offer. In a time where many are choosing to travel closer to home, SALTS staff and crew are excited that the uniqueness of their program can draw tourism to Vancouver Island, and they hope this is the first trip of many that will take place with school groups from around the world.
SALTS Executive Director, Loren Hagerty, says, “it’s exciting to have a group from so far away recognize the immense value in a SALTS adventure and be willing to travel for it!”
S.A.L.T.S. Sail and Life Training Society
Phone: 250-383-6811
