Sophie Zych-Watson was one of 12 youngsters on a unique leadership program that took part in the mammoth effort run by Ocean Youth Trust Scotland (OYT Scotland).

The Trust’s young leader development program aims to harness the enthusiasm and talent of young people who have displayed a positive attitude and leadership potential.

That culminates in a voyage at sea covering over 1,000 miles from the Norwegian port of Bodø, in the Arctic Circle, to Inverness. The 14-day trip started on July 18 and ended August 3.

Sophie and the team were aboard Alba Explorer as it explored the Lofoten Islands and Norwegian Fjords, before heading across the North Sea. The route saw the team stop off at the Shetland and Orkney Isles en-route to the Highland capital.

OYT Scotland aims to inspire positive change in young people aged 12-25 through the challenge of adventure under sail. Funded by the Young Start fund and operated by OYT Scotland, the programme annually produces 12 volunteer sea-staff for the trust.

Nick Fleming, chief executive of Ocean Youth Trust Scotland and skipper for the voyage said: “There is no doubt that this voyage is a formidable challenge physically, mentally and emotionally.”