Hull is set for a spectacular seaside moment this April as two stunning tall ships sail into port — carrying not just sails and sea spray, but powerful stories of courage, recovery and resilience.
The magnificent Spirit of Falmouth and Pellew will dock in the city on Tuesday 14 April, turning heads as they glide into Hull Marina as part of a remarkable nationwide voyage.
But these aren’t just any ships.
On board are 70 wounded, injured and sick veterans and serving personnel — real-life heroes — taking part in an epic journey known as the Full Circle Expedition. The voyage is being run by the veterans’ sailing charity Turn to Starboard in partnership with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.
The mission? Recovery, rehabilitation — and hope.
The ships set sail from Falmouth last month and are travelling anticlockwise around the UK, stopping at 22 ports before returning home in June. Along the way, they are proudly carrying the Invictus Games flag — building excitement ahead of a major event in Birmingham this July, marking just one year to go until the 2027 Games.
And Hull is next on the map.
In a special civic moment, the Invictus flag will be handed over to the city and raised by Cheryl Payne, who is also Admiral of the Humber.
She said the arrival of the ships would be “terrific” for the city, adding that residents will get a rare chance to step aboard the impressive vessels while they are docked near the recently restored Spurn Lightship.
And here’s the best part — it’s FREE.
Members of the public can climb aboard and explore the ships on Thursday 16 April between 2pm and 4pm, with no tickets required. Earlier that same day, from 9am to 12pm, veterans and reservists — along with their families — will have exclusive access to experience life on deck.
Behind the scenes, the expedition is about far more than sailing.
According to organisers, it’s about rebuilding lives. Life at sea offers veterans a unique challenge — helping restore confidence, create purpose and reconnect individuals who may be struggling with issues such as PTSD, injury, or isolation.
The voyage is also raising an ambitious £300,000 to fund a second tall ship, allowing the charity to help even more veterans in need.
“This is more than a voyage,” said organisers. “It’s a story of courage, service and renewal.”
As Hull prepares to welcome these towering vessels and the inspiring crew behind them, one thing is clear — this is no ordinary visit.
It’s a powerful reminder that even after life’s toughest battles, new horizons are always within reach.
