South Passage is a 30 metre long gaff-rigged schooner – a traditional sailing ship where the sails are raised and lowered by hand.

The ship is owned and operated by the non-profit organisation the Sail Training Association of Queensland, which uses the vessel to provide a sailing opportunities, among other things like team building, to 14 to 17 year olds.

Peter Grace, South Passage board member and watch leader, said sailing a working tall ship in the traditional way is an unforgettable experience for students.

“Many schools sail with us every year and each may have a different goal in mind,” he said.

“The students use the ship as a platform to develop resilience, leadership and teamwork as they learn to work together to sail the ship.

“No two voyages are ever the same as the passengers and crew navigate the route together, deciding when to stop and explore an island or bay and when to take advantage of good weather and sail on.”

Students will sail South Passage from Coffs Harbour to Nelson Bay, which will arrive on October 18.

South Passage will dock at d’Albora Marinas for five days.

The public will have the chance to sail South Passage.

The training association is offering people a chance to take part in half-day sails.

Sailing will be done between 10am and 1pm on October 19 then between 1pm and 4pm on October 21 and 22.

Tickets cost $50 for adults, 435 concessions, $25 for children under 12. Children under 5 are free.

To Book go to southpassage.org.au or phone (07) 3893 3777.

After its stint in Nelson Bay, a group of students will sail South Passage to Sydney.