Seventy Wounded, Injured, and Sick Veterans Navigate a 2,000-Mile Expedition Around the UK in Partnered Adventure with Invictus Games

Published: 25 Apr 2026
In an inspiring show of resilience and camaraderie, a group of 70 wounded, injured, and sick veterans and serving personnel have set sail on a traditional sailing yachts to navigate a 2,000-mile expedition around the UK.

The Full Circle Expedition, an ambitious 2,000-mile journey, is more than just a circumnavigation of the United Kingdom. It’s a journey of resilience, a quest for adventure, and a resounding testament to the valor of veterans navigating barriers beyond the battleground. Seventy wounded, injured, and sick (WIS) veterans and serving personnel make up the rotating crew aboard the Spirit of Falmouth and the Pellew, respectively 28-metre and 27-metre traditionally-rigged sailing yachts.

Kick-starting their journey on 17 March from Falmouth, Cornwall, these intrepid mariners are slated to visit 22 ports scattered across England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales before the anticipated return to Falmouth on 11 June 2026. Orchestrated by veteran sailing charity Turn to Starboard, the expedition is a partnership initiative with the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, a renowned international adaptive sporting event dedicated to the recovery and rehabilitation of WIS service personnel and veterans.

The Full Circle Expedition extends beyond a grand voyage. It is an inspiring tale of courage, resilience, and renewal that demonstrates how the magic of group adventure and the healing power of the sea can yield unity, inspire recovery, and instill a sense of purpose. As these incredible veterans sail the Invictus Games Flag around the UK, they magnify the spirit of courage, determination, and community that continues to define them long after their military service concludes.

As the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 looms, the Full Circle Expedition sends a resounding message about the strength, resilience, and spirit of those who serve and those who have served before them. It reminds us that recovery goes beyond the field of play, extending into challenge, connection, and community.

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