8/7/2025
It’s surreal to say this will be my third time exhibiting at the Southampton International Boat Show with Ardent Training. Sixteen years and hundreds of thousands of nautical miles later, I’m returning once again to the very show where a 17-year-old version of me, fresh from a small, landlocked town, unable to swim and never having set foot on a yacht, first stumbled into the world of sailing.
Back then, I was just tagging along with my sister for a fun day out, completely unaware that the conversations I’d have with seasoned sailors would set my whole life on a new course. I signed up for a 5-day RYA Competent Crew course. Not only did I survive some intense, severe gale winds, but I also discovered I loved it (and didn’t get seasick, bonus!). Within a week, I was booked onto Day Skipper, and I haven’t looked back since.
Since then, the sea has been my home, classroom, and office. I’ve been lucky enough to crew everything from whale research vessels to Antarctic expedition ships, exploring all seven continents. Along the way, I’ve managed to sneak my way into rooftop parties hosted by royalty, news segments (don’t worry, not the crime section), and even the credits of a David Attenborough show. No, you still can’t have my autograph.
Today, I’m the principal of an RYA training centre, a trustee of a marine conservation charity, and a harbour association director. Titles that would have sounded completely made up to my teenage self. Now, I get to live on a boat with my wife and child, which is only slightly more chaotic than you’d imagine, but at least I never have to mow the lawn.
Coming back to Southampton for a third time as an exhibitor, I can’t help but look out for that next young, slightly lost future sailor. If you’re curious about life at sea, want to chat about adventures (and misadventures), or just need a nudge to take your first step, come and say hello. I’ll also be giving a talk or two on the main stage.
See you at the Southampton Boat Show 2025! Whether you’re a total beginner or a well-salted old hand, come have a blather at the Ardent Training stand.
Cheers,
Edd Hewett
Contact Us:
🌐 ardent-training.com
📧 [email protected]
📞 01688 325025
