Training and exploration are core to Rubicon 3's company philosophy. The adventure sailing specialist has developed a new scheme to help newly qualified yachtmaster graduates break into the sailing profession by providing much sought-after hands-on experience.

Many 18-to-24-year-olds face the problem of being qualified but lacking experience and combined with an increasing demand for fewer jobs, it is particularly difficult to get a break. Working with the UK Sailing Association, the Cowes-based sailing charity, Rubicon 3 has agreed to take on board a series of young, recently-qualified Yachtmaster graduates to give them their first step into the industry.

The selected graduates will be invited to join one of the long-range expeditions that take in St Petersburg, Scandinavia, Iceland and Norway. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to receive first-class mentoring and to train alongside Rubicon 3's professional crew on a real expedition. The scheme aims to bridge the gap between graduation and employment, and takes what the newly qualified sailor has learnt on the course into 'real life'.

The challenging and exciting expeditions will not only help the individual to develop in confidence and put into practice the skills they have learnt on a large boat, sailing in foreign countries, they will also learn about client care, marketing and accounting; a mixture of skills and experience they will need to begin a successful career.

Rubicon 3's director and founder Bruce Jacobs comments: "We all know just how tough it is to get started in a new career, especially in this day and age. There are some fantastic, committed and enthusiastic young adults out there who just need a bit of a helping hand, and we are delighted to be able to offer them the best start possible. More than that, I really believe that having someone with these qualities on board enhances the experience for everybody, crew and clients alike."

Jacobs adds; "A candidate will be selected for each of the four expeditions, and will help with day-today running of the boat, navigation, key maintenance and looking after clients. Running a boat designed for racing around the world with paying clients on board is a big step up from qualifying as a yachtmaster, and these expeditions will really bridge the gap between training and real-life situations. The industry is always on the lookout for those with skill and the ability to show some hard graft and dedication, and other sailing companies have already expressed an interest in having outstanding performers introduced to them as potential employees."

Going forward, Rubicon 3 aims to establish a training programme offering young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, who are not in full-time education or employment, the experience of learning to sail and the opportunity to earn sailing qualifications, and ultimately gain employment.

For further information visit www.rubicon3.co.uk or call 0203 086 7245

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For press information contact Emma McEnroe (0775 221 5397; emma@mcenroepr.co.uk)