Jess discovered sailing a little later than most, taking her first step aboard a Tall Ship at 30 — not bad for someone born and raised in land-locked Birmingham. What began as a life-changing voyage on the Dutch Brig Morgenster through Classic Sailing quickly became a new way of life. Jess went on to volunteer aboard several vessels before leaving a long career in the education sector to join National Historic Ships UK’s flagship SHTP2 traineeship in 2019.
Since then, Jess has worked & sailed aboard many of the vessels in the UK’s traditional fleet in a range of roles from Deckhand to First Mate to Cook, completed STCWs and RYA qualifications, and spent time learning traditional boatbuilding at IBTC Lowestoft. Combining over 15 years of communications and marketing experience with hands-on maritime background, Jess brings a unique perspective to Classic Sailing’s storytelling and outreach.
A passionate advocate for inclusion and community in the maritime world, Jess is an active member of Women in Boatbuilding and Balancing the Boat, and co-hosts the Off Watch Podcast, celebrating life aboard traditional ships and the people who sail them.
