The Original Pathfinder Norfolk Broads Cruise is a christian sailing
cruise which is run for a week every year, during the Easter holidays,
in the area of the rivers Ant, Bure and Thurne. The aim is to teach
children age 13-16 (Years 8-11) about Christianity (though you don't have to be a
christian to come), while having fun sailing.
We sail and sleep aboard traditional Norfolk yachts (about 16 of them), with a skipper and a junior officer
for every crew of 2-4 pathfinders. There are yacht prayers every
morning, and each evening we gather either in a large launch or in a
local church for 'Logs and Shanties' - a time of fun and worship.
Events
Next year's cruise will run from from April 10th to April 17th 2010 (Easter Sunday is April 4th).
Before then, the leaders will have a first aid day in February and a sail training weekend in March.
If you're a leader and you want to go on these, contact Paddy.
About...the Leaders
A collection of inspiring people of all ages and from all over the country. You will
feel really valued as they listen to what you say. They will also encourage you to
join in with the fun ranging from water fights to carnival days! The leaders have a
real range of spiritual experiences so wherever you're at in life there will be someone
to talk to who knows what you are going through..
About...the Activities
We voyage as a group across the Norfolk Broads. This takes us down windy rivers and under
low bridges where we have to lower the masts! We stop off in small towns to have some
"shore leave." In the evening after dinner we all meet up together on a big launch boat
where we sing silly songs and people tell often embellished stories about their exploits
that day. We then have a time of worship and teaching. After this we break down into
discussion groups with people our own age with a leader to learn more about God's love
and encouragement.
About...the Accommodation
We live aboard yachts of different sizes (4 to 8 berth) and sailing performances. Some of
the yachts are traditional Norfolk Broads boats whilst others are more modern and fast!
The yachts are divided into four groups of four yachts called squadrons - two boys yachts
and two girls yachts. We also have dinghies which can be sailed or rowed.
About...the Site and Area
The Norfolk Broads are a unique part of the UK consisting of rivers interconnecting large
lakes called "Broads". The wildlife and nature is beautiful. Some of the Broads are nature
reserves. Dotted around the rivers are lots of disused windmills which add to the character
of the area.
About...the Cost
This year, the cruise should cost around £260 for the week, which will include accommodation, food and
everything else. If you genuinely think you'll have a problem with this, talk to one of the
people below, and we'll see what we can do.
People and Contact Details
Commodore
Paddy Gleave
30 The Weal
Weston
Bath
BA1 4EX
01225 463360
Bookings
Stephen Didsbury
16 Latchett Road
London
E18 1DJ
Webmaster
Greg Melia
