The foundation A Sea Without Barriers (Un Mar Sin Barreras), supports the cultural, labour, and social integration of people with a disability and those in risk of social exclusion through projects and activities focused on the nautical sector. 

The main objectives of the Foundation are, among others: to promote the professional training as well as labour integration of people with a disability, to develop programs that facilitate accessibility to facilities, equipment and boats and to develop programs and activities that bring people with a disability closer to the sea. The Foundation carries out, in addition to La Sirenita project, four main programs: Workshop (vocational training), Adaptive Marine Activities Club, Adaptive Sailing School and Accessibility Centre.

Restoration and adaptation of the motor boat "Sirenita"

In the harbour of Valencia, modern catamarans are taking tourist out sailing. Their predecessors, three old-fashioned tourist boats, are long forgotten. As they were no longer being used, they were left to sink at the beginning of the year. The foundation "A Sea Without Barriers" was able to save one, "Sirenita" (Little Mermaid).
"Sirenita" was built in 1953 and was used a tourist boat in the harbour of Valencia during 50 years. The foundation has worked hard to totally reform the boat and adapt it to the needs of passengers with reduced mobility. The new installations include a flat deck, special systems to fasten 8 wheelchairs (suitable for any kind aof wheelchair), an adapted toilet (120mm wheelchair turning space, transfer bars) and a ramp to enter the boat easily. "Sirenita" will be first adapted tourist boat in the harbour of Valencia. In September, it will start taking passengers with and without a disability to enjoy the harbour of Valencia. 

Adapted Sailing School.

The objective of the sailing school is to promote the integration between able-bodied people and people with a disability through sailing activities. The school offers a wide range of activities, from beginners classes in sailing to competition training.

Sailing classes are held on Friday afternoon or Saturday morning, take about three hours and combine theory and practice. A team of professional sailing instructors, specialised in adapted sailing, will teach you all the basics.

The Adaptive Sailing School is located in the Port of Port Saplaya. The address is: Highway AP7, km. 4.5 Ronda del Puerto, Alboraya.

Fundación Un Mar Sin Barreras
Calle Serrería, 41
46022 Valencia
Tel: +34 96 355 93 41
Fax: +34 96 355 93 37
E-mail: info@unmarsinbarreras.org
www.unmarsinbarreras.org

 

Rebecca Arce