Thursday, 29 May marked a milestone for women in the maritime industries as the first-ever women’s-only sea survival course took place in Newquay, spearheaded by the indefatigable Clare Leverton from Seafood Cornwall Training (SCT), who also serves as a director for UK Women in Fisheries.

This opportunity brought together passionate women from a range of marine-related careers – from scuba instructors to researchers and, of course, female fishermen – for a day of learning, laughter and life-saving knowledge.

Designed to empower women with the skills and confidence to stay safe at sea, the full-day course welcomed participants from across the UK. Twelve women, all united by a love of the water and a commitment to progressing in their careers, gathered to learn about the best methods of surviving at sea should the worst happen.

UK Women in Fisheries has heard from women across the UK about their difficult experiences attending sea survival courses where they were the only woman present. Many have shared stories of feeling isolated, overlooked, ridiculed or harassed in male-dominated environments.

Leading the course was Kath Scott, a seasoned sea survival instructor from Compass Sea School in Inverness. Kath made the long journey down to Cornwall the day before, navigating half-term travel chaos to ensure this event could go ahead. Her expertise and leadership were vital in setting the tone for a day filled with encouragement and learning.

From the start, the course had a noticeably different energy. The day began with birthday cake, as one participant was celebrating her special day.

Throughout the day, participants noted how the women-only environment created a unique sense of safety and openness. Vulnerability was welcomed, and questions were encouraged. This atmosphere allowed for deeper learning and genuine connection.

The pool session, the most physically demanding part of sea survival training, became an unexpected hub of laughter and mutual support. Despite some initial nerves, the pool quickly filled with cheers and words of encouragement, transforming into a celebration of strength, trust and resilience.

“From this course I learnt so much about how to increase the chance of survival in emergency situations at sea,” said fisheries PhD student Freya Palmer.

“Attending a women’s-only sea survival course removed one of my personal internal barriers – it made something I was quite nervous in doing to something fun and enjoyable. It was a wholesome day where I met a lovely group of women, sharing experiences of working within the industry.

“I’m now excited about the prospect of going out on a fishing boat if the opportunity arises in my next round of fieldwork for my PhD in the autumn!”

Fellow participant Lauren Hunkin added: “Being part of the women-only sea survival course was special – it became a safe space for us all to learn. Having done this course 11 years ago and being the only woman then, I felt a lot more involved this time round. I came away feeling empowered.”

This event would not have been possible without the vision and dedication of Clare Leverton and the SCT team, whose hard work turned a bold idea into a successful reality despite many setbacks – particularly the difficulty in finding a woman trainer. We’re confident that more women will be able to pursue careers across the marine industries, and also as trainers, since this women-only course.

Huge thanks also go to Kath Scott for her commitment and care, Newquay Swimming Pool for providing two hours of pool time during the busy half-term period, The Seafarers’ Charity and, of course, the incredible women who participated, bringing energy, enthusiasm and sisterhood to every part of the day.

UK Women in Fisheries will always champion women-only learning spaces when they create opportunities for growth, safety and success. Supporting women’s access to training and career progression isn’t just about equality – it strengthens the entire industry for all.

When women feel safe, supported and empowered, they’re more likely to thrive, stay in the sector and lead the way for others. Everyone benefits when barriers to participation are removed.

If you’d like to learn more about sea survival, or express an interest in participating in the next women-only course, please contact SCT. Find out more here.

This story was taken from the latest issue of Fishing News. For more up-to-date and in-depth reports on the UK and Irish commercial fishing sector, subscribe to Fishing News here or buy the latest single issue for just £3.50 here. 

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