Blind at Sea is a small Cornish charity which will launch Pegasus - a Beneteau Oceanis 31 - from its base at Mylor Harbour, near Falmouth on Saturday, 28th March at 1pm.

Charity Commodore Dr Thérèse Canning expressed her excitement: "Our mission is to share the joy of Cornwall's stunning sea and waterways with as many blind and partially sighted adults as possible. We strive to eliminate economic and physical barriers to full participation in sailing and rowing which is integral to the Cornish way of life. The purchase of Pegasus should ensure that we are able to do this for many years to come. We currently have over thirty regular participants and would welcome more to join us on Pegasus.

“Our old boat has given great service, but we wanted to have the best, safest, more modern and beautiful boat for everyone who takes part.”

Bo’s’n Niall Rath explained why the charity had chosen Pegasus: “The Beneteau Oceanis 31 is safe, spacious, elegant and agile so makes the perfect choice for our experienced and novice sailors. Pegasus will bring years of happiness in and around Mylor Yacht Harbour.”

The purchase of the new yacht has been made possible thanks to generous donations, including from the Clare Milne Trust, the Superyacht Charities and The National Lottery.

Doreen Gibbons, who is partially sighted, regularly takes part in the sailing sessions.“It’s a really relaxing experience on the boat with the wind and excitement of being out on the sea. When I’m helming it’s a fabulous feeling.

“We know our safety is paramount and we can have a great day out.”

The charity has volunteer experienced skippers and crew and aims to sail several times a week, weather permitting during the season. The charity welcomes new and experienced blind and partially sighted adults to join the sailings. For more information on how to take part or fundraise visit www.blindatsea.co.uk