Another successful All-Women Sea Survival course!
Celebrating Newquay’s All-Women Sea Survival Course (2026!)
Last week, we celebrated another powerful moment for women in maritime training Cornwall, as Seafood Cornwall Training (SCT) completed the second all-women sea survival course. Following the success of the first ever all-women course in May 2025 the impressive team at SCT, led by Sanchia and Clare have achieved a memorable, impactful and perfect event again!
Organised by Clare and Sanchia, the course reflects a growing commitment to opening up the maritime industry to more women, not just as participants, but as leaders and instructors with the same formal training as any other new entrant. In a sector where women’s representation is still limited, this initiative is necessary, timely and in high-demand (particularly from the husbands, boyfriends and fathers of women seafarers).
The course itself remains the same gold-standard training required for anyone heading to sea. Meeting both Seafish and STCW requirements, it is the essential first step for those seeking to work aboard ships, yachts, or fishing vessels. What makes this course unique, however, is the team delivering it. From tutors to training assistants and office staff, every role is filled by woman - creating a learning environment that is both professional and deeply supportive.
This year, 2025 alumna Lauren Hunkin, UK Women in Fisheries Community Ambassador for Cornwall also popped along to the 2026 course in Newquay and introduced the Women in Fisheries network to even more women.
This milestone builds on significant progress made over the past year. In early 2025, a nationwide search revealed a stark reality; that only a handful of qualified female sea survival tutors existed across the UK. In response, Seafood Cornwall Training, supported by the Seafarers Charity, invested in the development of five women seafarers through advanced training and professional development.
The result is a remarkable cohort of maritime professionals: an explorer and sail training instructor, a commercial fisherman, a lifeboat crew member, and a tall ship Watch Leader. Each brings a unique skill set, and all are now highly qualified tutors. Since then, two more women have gained approval to deliver survival training at STCW and Seafish standards.
A special note of thanks goes to Everard Insurance for generously sponsoring three places on this course. Their support has helped open the door for more women to take that crucial first step into a maritime career.
In particular, Sandra Pascoe’s enthusiastic backing as an engaged member of UK WIF and employee of Everard has made a meaningful difference.
