The social enterprise Sea Ranger Service is launching in the UK to offer young people the chance to sail out to sea and look after the environment — and get paid while doing so.

The Sea Ranger Service launched in 2016 to support governments with the management and restoration of oceans while offering young people, particularly those in coastal regions, a unique start to their careers. 

Researchers found that young people growing up in rural and coastal regions are half as likely to go to university and twice as likely to give up pursuing aspirational careers, as those in city and suburban areas.

Since its launch, the organisation has trained over 120 young people to carry out biodiversity restoration at scale in the Netherlands and France. The programme is now launching in the UK, and its mission is to restore 1 million hectares of ocean biodiversity by 2040 whilst training 20,000 young people towards a maritime career.

Young people aged 18-29 will be trained to monitor, research and protect nature in our oceans. But first, they must take part in an intense Bootcamp, which is kicking off on March 1st, where participants are tested on their motivation, teamwork skills and learning abilities. Those selected will then take to the water on sailing expeditions from Port Talbot, where the ship is based, and will be employed as full-time Sea Rangers.

The work of Sea Rangers includes climate research, restoring seagrass, monitoring protected sea areas and using drones and underwater robots to collect data on the ocean environment. All of which are essential for protecting our oceans, which are vital for our existence as they generate the majority of the oxygen we breathe, help regulate climate, and are home to much of the Earth’s biodiversity.

The Sea Ranger Service carries out these assignments for government agencies, and Sea Rangers get the opportunity to transition into a full-time seafaring career after six months.

Wietse van der Werf, Founder and CEO of the Sea Ranger Service, comments: “After spending time working as an engineer on ships in Antarctica, I knew I had to take action to protect our oceans. We are very excited to bring our unique service to the UK seas and coastal areas. I look forward to meeting the new candidates who share our passion for the environment and are motivated to become the next set of Sea Rangers.”

Candidates are required to be aged 18-29 but do not need any specific training or previous sailing experience before applying. Registration for the Bootcamp opens on January 10, 2024.

Vera Hoogenberg, a selected Sea Ranger, said: “I was a bit lost, so I wanted to join the Sea Ranger Bootcamp to rediscover who I am. It was a fantastic experience. I got to know my strengths and weaknesses very quickly, and it was great for my development and self-esteem.