The Ipswich Heritage Harbour Project (IHHP) has launched a new Maritime Bursary designed to make maritime opportunities more accessible to young people aged 16–25 across Suffolk. The scheme offers up to £1,400 per applicant — or up to £2,000 in exceptional circumstances — to support sailing, maritime training, voyages, qualifications, and career-building opportunities.
Applications are open now and close on Friday 7 February 2026, ahead of the 2026 sailing season. Funded through the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the IHHP Maritime Bursary is part of IHHP’s wider mission to reconnect the public with Ipswich’s living maritime heritage. From the adventurers and navigators who once set sail from the River Orwell to the shipwrights, engineers and craftspeople who shaped the waterfront, Suffolk’s maritime story is rich with ambition and discovery.
The bursary aims to help today’s young people become part of that story. The bursary aims to make maritime activities more accessible by removing cost barriers and encouraging beginners to get involved. No previous sailing or maritime experience is required, and first-time applicants are warmly welcomed. Eligible applicants must be aged 16–25 (as of 1 March 2026) and either live, study, work or have a meaningful connection to Suffolk. Funding can cover course fees, voyages, day sails, essential kit, travel and training costs.
Successful applicants will be informed on 19 February 2026, with recipients announced publicly on 23 February 2026.
Find full details of the Bursary and work of the IHHP here.
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