Introducing Alistair Mansfield

Our boatgen ambassadors are passionate young people keen to inspire the next generation of young boaters to experience the freedom, challenges and amazing benefits that come with being on the water.  Learn more about Alistair Mansfield, one of our recently appointed ambassadors. 

Name: Alistair Mansfield 

Age: 24 

Location: Lymington 

Current occupation: Freelance sailing instructor 

How did you get into boating? 
I’m not from a boating family but I was very lucky that my school had a sailing club for a few years, and I enjoyed it so much that I went on to join sea cadets.  Through the cadets I got involved in yachting in 2013 and became a dinghy instructor; and as a result of that access to watersports in my youth I’ve had so many great opportunities and I’m now pursuing a career in the watersports industry.  

Tell us about your boating achievements 
The highlight of my sailing experience is definitely sailing to America when I was 19, especially when I got to see whales up close!  Other favourite moments include competing for the Royal Navy Sailing Association at Cowes week and the Dartmouth regatta, and becoming a Senior Instructor.   

What have you been up to recently? 
I have recently finished an International Relations degree and I’m now enjoying being able to get out on the water more regularly. I am currently working at Royal Lymington Yacht Club, and teaching at a few other sailing centres on the South Coast. Over winter I have been working towards my Yachtmaster for the start of the season, and hope to complete it next month.  

 Why did you sign up to become a boatgen ambassador?
 I am extremely enthusiastic about the benefits of watersports and outdoor activities and want to share this with more young people; getting outdoors and having adventures has proven mental health benefits, and it has definitely improved my confidence and given me so many opportunities. I’d like to showcase the range and potential of watersports beyond the ‘elite’ perception of yachting and dinghy racing, that it can be affordable, accessible, and has something for everyone.