Veterans to embark on expedition from Falmouth to carry Invictus Games flag
Sailing challenge aims to raise funds for veteran recovery
A group of wounded, injured, and sick military veterans and serving personnel are set to embark on an unforgettable voyage from Falmouth.
The historic 2,000-nautical-mile sailing expedition, named Full Circle, will see the crew circumnavigate the UK aboard two tall ships while carrying the Invictus Games flag.
The challenge is aimed at raising £300,000 to support veterans and serving personnel affected by their service, helping them rebuild confidence and recover.
Sally Terry, CEO of Turn to Starboard, & expedition lead, said: “T2S is proud to announce that this undertaking will be in partnership with the Invictus Games, uniting two organisations committed to empowering veterans through challenge, camaraderie and community.
“Both believe in the transformative power of adventure- and where the Invictus Games harnesses the spirit of sport to inspire recovery and rehabilitation, T2S channels the unique challenges of life at sea to rebuild confidence, find purpose and navigate life with intention and fulfilment for veterans.
“This remarkable expedition is more than a voyage- it’s a powerful story of courage, service and renewal - a testament to how adventure and the sea can help heal, inspire and bring people together.”
Epic journey for a meaningful cause
Starting on 17th March 2026, the voyage will begin in Falmouth and travel anticlockwise around the UK before returning on 11th June 2026, marking one year until the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.
Participants will crew two traditionally rigged tall ships, Pellew and Spirit of Falmouth, visiting 22 ports across all four nations. The journey will be divided into five legs, swapping crew members at stopovers including Chatham, Edinburgh, Tanera, and Liverpool.
Turn to Starboard has used the therapeutic benefits of sailing to help veterans cope with challenges such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, physical injuries, isolation, unemployment, and low confidence.
Among the Full Circle expedition crew is Dan Fielding, a former Royal Marine and T2S Chief Operating Officer, who will act as a skipper.
About his mental health struggles after breaking his back and how the charity helped him reconnect with life, Mr Fielding said: “Picking up the phone and taking that first step was the hardest thing in the world, but as soon as I called the charity, I wondered why I hadn’t done it sooner.
"We have so many veterans who need our help, but we need another boat and help with running costs to keep this all going.
"It’s heartbreaking to have to turn anyone away, because when a veteran reaches out, they need you right then and there.”
The charity hopes the funds raised will go towards running costs and adding Pellew to their fleet.
A lasting legacy
The Invictus Games flag, currently aboard HMS Prince of Wales, will return to the UK in December 2025 before joining the crew for the Full Circle expedition. Once the ship returns to Falmouth, the flag will continue to Birmingham for the Games in July 2027.
Captain Lee Hazard MStJ KHP Royal Navy from the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 Executive Team highlighted the importance of the voyage:
“Full Circle’s mission is to help veterans overcome adversity, rediscover their strengths and create meaningful connections that last far beyond the field of play or the deck of a ship.
“This project not only honours the sacrifices of those who have served but also builds a lasting legacy of hope, healing, and possibility.”