Sea Scout

Sea Scouts are members of the international Scouting movement, with a particular emphasis on boating and water-based activities. These activities can be on the sea, rivers or lakes. Sea Scouts can provide a chance to sail, cruise on boats, learn navigation, learn how to work on engines and compete in regattas. Sea Scouts often have distinctive uniforms. In some countries or scout organizations, Sea Scouting is a program just for older Scouts.

History

One of the earliest records of "Sea Scouts" is in Chums magazine which refers to "Sea Scouts" as early as July 1909. These Sea Scouts were part of the Chums Scouts and British Boy Scouts.

Also in the Chums magazine, the British Boys Naval Brigade, later National Naval Cadets, were subtitled 'Scouts of the Sea' from the 14 July 1909 edition and, from the 28 July 1909 edition, 'Sea Scouts of the Empire'. The British Boy Scouts and an original company of The National Naval Cadets were both headquartered in Battersea, London and the 'boys' weekly newspaper Chums was the official journal of both. The National Naval Cadets affiliated with the British Boy Scouts as part of its Sea Scouts.

Sea Scouts (The Scout Association)

Sea Scouts were first formed in the United Kingdom in 1909 as a branch of The Scout Association and have been a feature of the Scouting movement ever since. The branch has a particular emphasis on boating and water-based activities, such as sailing, canoeing, motorboating and navigation.

Sea Scouts are aged 10 to 14, and Explorer Sea Scouts 14 to 18. Sea Scout Groups often have younger members in Beaver Scout and Cub Scout sections. Although they are not counted in Sea Scout numbers, they are allowed to wear the Royal Navy Recognition Badge if their Group has that recognition.

Royal Navy Recognition

In the United Kingdom there are approximately 400 Sea Scout Groups and 101 of these are recognised by the Royal Navy. The scheme began in 1919 following the efforts of Scouts during World War I in support of the armed forces, through service as coast watchers, first aiders, fire fighters and messengers. Groups that apply for Recognition are inspected by a Royal Navy officer. Providing there is a vacant position, Groups that pass the inspection and meet the exacting standards of the Royal Navy are awarded Recognition on behalf of the Admiralty Board.

Sea Scouts (Scouting Ireland)

Sea Scouting (Irish: Gasógaíacht Mhara) has existed in Ireland since 1912. Currently, all Sea Scout Groups in Ireland are members of the World Organisation of the Scout Movement (WOSM) through Scouting Ireland. Sea Scouting provides Scout training with and through water-borne activities.

History

Sea Scout Boats

The Sea Scout Standard Boat (BP18)