An overnight sailing trip tailored for men and women recovering from addiction is due to take place aboard Spirit of Bermuda on October 1 and 2.

The annual Charlotte Sail is designed to help those who have suffered alcohol or drug addiction as well as those who have been affected by addiction indirectly.

The sail is held in memory of Charlotte Watlington, a Bermudian woman who committed suicide in 2013 after battling with addiction and depression.

The organisers are finalising a facilitator who will lead discussions and share recovery practices.

Last year’s facilitator was Jim Roi, a New York-based philosphoper and healer specialising in the treatment of “spiritual disease” along with Pathways Bermuda counsellor Roger Trott.

Organiser Gordon Johnson said: “We are deeply appreciative of the opportunity to invite individuals and family members who are or have been impacted by the addiction to come together on the Spirit of Bermuda on the topic of recovery practices and purpose of doing our important work in recovery together.

“We once again are supported by the generosity of the Bermuda Sloop Foundation, private individuals and the Bank of Bermuda Foundation so that there are no financial barriers to participants.

“There are 21 bunks available for our overnight sail and we are starting to fill up. We are looking forward to announcing our facilitator in the near future — an experienced therapist who works with individuals and family members seeking recovery from addiction.

“The boat provides the ideal environment of working together as a community (crew) to discover and/or remember that together we can and that in recovery — being connected is being protected. This is an opportunity to connect and learn from one another with the potential to stay connected on land.” Thanks to sponsorship by the Bank of Bermuda Foundation and private individuals, the organisers can again offer partial or full scholarships to participants.

Those able to pay the full fee of $275 are required to do so.

Direct payment can be made to The Spirit of Bermuda — HSBC Acct # 006 049 639 001.

Participants should reference Charlotte’s Sail so they can easily credit the correct account.

Anyone interested in taking part in future sails should call 505-3820 or e-mail gordon.robert.johnson@gmail.com