NSSLGlobal backs veterans’ sailing voyage round UK

SOFIAH NICHOLE SALIVIO

News Editor

NSSLGlobal has equipped two tall ships in the Full Circle veterans’ sailing expedition around the UK with satellite communications. The voyage is carrying the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 flag.

It has provided broadband satellite connectivity on Pellew and Spirit of Falmouth, along with handheld satellite voice phones for emergencies, crew training and round-the-clock technical support. The expedition involves up to 70 ex-forces veterans taking part in stages of a 2,000-nautical-mile route around the UK.

Organised by Turn to Starboard and Full Circle, the voyage set out from Falmouth and is due to visit 22 ports across the UK over 13 weeks before returning home. Crew members include veterans who are wounded, injured or dealing with mental health challenges.

The communications systems are being used for welfare, safety and media purposes during the journey. The voyage is also seeking to raise GBP £300,000 to help fund the purchase of another tall ship and expand support for ex-service personnel.

Support at sea

The project aligns with NSSLGlobal’s work in maritime and defence communications, including support for welfare initiatives linked to service personnel. It also highlighted its previous backing for former soldier Craig Wood, who completed a solo Pacific crossing after losing both legs and his left hand in Afghanistan.

That broader context helps explain its involvement in a voyage focused on recovery, reconnection and raising the visibility of veterans through a public route around the British coastline.

“We are delighted to support Turn to Starboard & Full Circle with communications. This hugely uplifting project is using the experience of sea and sail to give our veterans potentially life-changing opportunities to rebuild confidence, strength and a sense of connection in the face of all kinds of physical and mental challenges. We have been lucky to have met some of the organisers and crew at numerous port stays and key events throughout the UK. Staff from our different offices have been on board and experienced first-hand the great atmosphere and teamwork. Having enjoyed chats with fellow ex-service personnel, it is clear that this expedition is having a great impact, and being able to stay in touch and record the trip is also key,” said Sally-Anne Ray, Chief Executive Officer of NSSLGlobal.

Veterans aboard

Turn to Starboard was founded to support Armed Forces personnel affected by military operations through sailing and sail training. Based in Falmouth, the charity uses time at sea to help veterans and their families rebuild confidence and find structure after service.

The Full Circle expedition connects that work with the Invictus Games flag, which is being carried around the UK ahead of the Birmingham event. Participants join different legs of the voyage rather than sailing the full route, allowing more veterans to take part.

Satellite connectivity has become a practical part of that model because crews are often at sea for extended periods and moving between ports. The equipment allows those on board to remain in contact with relatives and support networks while also documenting the trip.

“Reliable communications play an important role in keeping our crews connected, supported and safe throughout the Full Circle Expedition. NSSLGlobal’s connectivity support enables those on board to stay in touch with loved ones and share their recovery journeys as they carry the Invictus Games Flag around the UK,” said Sally Terry, Chief Executive Officer of Turn to Starboard.

The expedition is being undertaken on two traditionally rigged wooden-hull vessels, adding a demanding physical element to the programme. Sailing these ships requires teamwork and sustained effort, which organisers say can help participants rebuild trust and resilience.

One of the skippers involved in the voyage is Army veteran Paul Miller, who is leading Spirit of Falmouth on part of the route.

“Being part of this expedition fills me with real pride. It has reminded me how far I’ve come in my own recovery and how much further we can all go together,” said Miller.