NINE intrepid explorers have returned from a 276-mile tall ship Sailing adventure.

The year 10 students from the Royal Manor Arts College on Portland had the experience of a lifetime on the ship, Morning Star of Revelation, a traditionally rigged 62ft vessel.

The Star Challenge 2010 project saw the teenagers spend a week on the ship learning about all aspects of sailing, including helming, hoisting sails, mooring up, cooking and cleaning.

Setting sail from Portland, the ship went to Lulworth, headed across the Channel for a tour of Alderney, Guernsey and Sark before crossing back to Brixham in south Devon and cruising back to Dorset.

Revive Portland, set up to create a legacy from the 2012 Olympics, teamed up with the arts college, the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy and youth development charity the Morning Star Trust to send the youngsters on the trip.

One of the aims of the project was to raise the youngsters’ self-esteem.

Will Sherriff, 15, said: “I managed to hoist the throat of the main sail all by myself which made me feel really proud.”

Revive Portland representative Nikki Billington, one of five adults who accompanied the students on the sailing adventure, said the youngsters had been ‘fantastic’.

She added: “In just six days I saw them mature into confident young adults.

“They took on new challenges and by working as a team they successfully dealt with whatever was thrown at them.”

The Morning Star Trust aims to provide personal development to young people through sailing adventures and lets them gain a qualification in competent crewing from the Royal Yachting Association.

Student Rebecca Sherman, 15, said “Star Challenge has changed me for the better. It has taught me to make the most of my life and not waste time worrying that I can’t do something.

“I achieved things that I never thought would be possible.”

Head of Year 10 at Royal Manor Jonathan Smith also accompanied the students on the trip.

He said: “The nine young people were superb ambassadors of the youth of Portland.

“I’d recommend anyone who has an opportunity like this to grab it with both hands.”