Isabella Heckstall-Smith

Isabella learnt to sail at 7 years old in gale force winds off the coast of the Isle of Wight. Not deterred by the chaotic start, she returned each summer to Cowes, eager to fill her logbook. She has since competed on the UK team racing circuit as a foredeck crew and tactician. She has loved competing for both her university league and international regattas (her favourite is Cowes Week). This summer will be Isabella’s 7th year teaching as a qualified instructor. Alongside sailing, she also instructs paddle boarding, kayaking, and teaches race strategy. She has used her role as a multi-disciplinary instructor to pioneer charitable marine programmes that aim to widen participation in the sport for disabled sailors.

When she isn’t on the water, Isabella is studying at Durham Law School; her research focuses on how the law is developing in light of artificial intelligence. She is especially interested in International Law. In her free time, you will find her diving, hiking, or curled up with her latest novel. She is excited to meet our teens and see them gain confidence in their abilities on and off the water!