Taking the Helm
Our Wetwheels Day on the Firth of Forth
There are some experiences that stick with you — not just because they’re fun, but because of what they unlock. Taking the helm on the Firth of Forth was exactly that.
Set against the backdrop of the Firth of Forth and beneath the iconic Forth Bridges, this wasn’t just a day out. It was a powerful, confidence-building experience for the young adults we support.
More Than Just a Boat Trip
This session took place during a more relaxed programme week, but as always at Edge, there was purpose behind it.
For many of the young adults involved, this was their first time on a boat. That alone is a big step. But this wasn’t about sitting back and watching — this was about taking part.
Every individual had the opportunity to take the helm and drive the Wetwheels fully accessible powerboat.
That moment — hands on the controls, out on open water — is hard to put into words. For some, it was their first time driving anything at all. The impact was immediate:
Confidence grew in real time
Barriers were broken down
New experiences became real achievements
This is what meaningful, real-world learning looks like.
Setting Sail from Port Edgar Marina
The day began at Port Edgar Marina, where we were welcomed by the Edinburgh Watersports CIC and Wetwheels Edinburgh teams. As always, safety first so after a clear and accessible safety briefing, we made our way down to the pier, ready to get out on the water.
Once onboard, the excitement built quickly.
We headed out onto the Firth of Forth, taking in views of the bridges and coastline before making our way towards Rosyth. Seeing the shipyard up close — including naval vessels under construction — added another layer to the experience.
From there, we made our way out towards Inchcolm Island… and that’s where the wildlife really put on a show!
Wildlife, Speed and a Bit of Friendly Competition
Out on the water, nature put on a show.
We spotted:
A harbour porpoise
A seal
Puffins
Lots of different of seabirds!
And, of course, the famous gnomes of “InchGnome” Island made an appearance.
The experience wasn’t just about what we saw — it was about how it felt.
The speed of the boat, the spray of the water, the energy on board… and then the highlight for many: taking control.
There was plenty of laughter and a bit of friendly competition too — who could steer the best line, who handled the turns like a pro, and who went just that bit faster (within reason, of course!).
The afternoon group even had a surprise escort back to harbour, with a harbour porpoise swimming alongside the boat — a moment that won’t be forgotten any time soon.
Confidence That Lasts Beyond the Day
Experiences like this go far beyond the moment.
They challenge self-perception.
They build confidence.
They show what’s possible.
For the young adults we support, this was about stepping up, taking control and showing exactly what they’re capable of.
This wasn’t just a “nice day out”. It was a genuine step forward in confidence, independence and trying something new.
A Huge Thank You
None of this would have been possible without the incredible teams at Edinburgh Watersports CIC and Wetwheels Edinburgh.
From the moment we arrived, everything was handled with professionalism, warmth and a real understanding of how to make the experience accessible, inclusive and — importantly — fun.
The team onboard were outstanding. They created an environment where everyone felt safe, supported and confident enough to get involved fully.
L-R: Gary, Alan, Susan & Rab, our on-board team for the day!
Quite simply, they made the day what it was.
This was more than an adventure. It was a reminder of what can happen when the right support meets the right opportunity — and the results speak for themselves.
Find Out More
If you’d like to learn more about the work of the Wetwheels Foundation, check out their website here: https://wetwheelsfoundation.org/wetwheels-operator/wetwheels-edinburgh/
To support the Wetwheels’ mission to make the water accessible to all, you can do this via their JustGiving link here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/wetwheelsedinburgh
Edinburgh Watersports CIC is based in South Queensferry and delivers a wide range of accessible, inclusive watersports activities — from sailing and kayaking to paddleboarding and powerboating — creating opportunities for people of all abilities to get out on the water. Discover their activities here: https://www.edinburghwatersports.com/
You can also find out more about our specialist supported day programmes and how we create real-world, confidence-building opportunities like this every day: https://www.edgegroupscotland.com/day-services