Wounded veterans set for 2,000-mile UK maritime expedition from Falmouth
The journey will mark one year until the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027
A rotating crew of 70 wounded, injured, and sick veterans and serving personnel will embark on a significant 2,000-mile maritime expedition around the UK, departing from Falmouth today (17th March).
Led by local charity Turn to Starboard, this journey forms part of the Full Circle Expedition and is organised in partnership with the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.
Festivities took place yesterday as the crew arrived at Falmouth.
The Invictus Games Flag will be formally lowered from the Falmouth Coastguard Station, initiating the expedition.
The actual departure on 17th March at 10:00 am will feature viewing opportunities from Pendennis Castle, marked by the firing of cannons as Spirit of Falmouth and Pellew set sail toward their circumnavigation, escorted by the Turn to Starboard fleet.
Traveling anticlockwise, the expedition will visit 22 ports across England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, carrying the Invictus Games Flag to build momentum toward the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 one-year-to-go event in July 2026.
Sally Terry, CEO of Turn to Starboard said that the expedition unites two organisations in their mission to empower veterans through challenge and community. She stated: “More than a voyage, this expedition is a powerful story of courage, service and renewal, showing how adventure and the sea can heal, inspire and bring people together.”
The expedition aims to raise £300,000 for Turn to Starboard to acquire a second tall ship, further aiding veterans coping with challenges such as PTSD, physical injury, isolation, and loss of confidence.
Captain Lee Hazard, Director of Special Projects at Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 said: “With the Invictus Games Flag onboard, these remarkable veterans led by Turn to Starboard will utilise their military skills to sail with purpose and skill. Full Circle shows that recovery doesn’t only happen on the field of play - it happens through challenge, connection and community."