Reardon Smith Nautical Trust

The Reardon Smith Nautical Trust, established in 2004 by the grandsons of Cardiff shipowner Sir William Reardon Smith—whose maritime philanthropy dates to the 1921 founding of a nautical school—advances the education of young people aged 16-25, prioritizing residents of Wales, Devon, and especially Cardiff. Rooted in a century-old family seafaring legacy, the Trust awards grants, scholarships, bursaries, and exhibitions for recognized nautical and maritime courses in shipping, navigation, sailing, oceanography, maritime law, commerce, and marine environmental studies, with a strong emphasis on practical seafaring experiences offered in the UK or abroad. Core values of inclusivity, equal opportunity, and environmental responsibility guide its work, ensuring fair treatment and adherence to standards like the RYA Environmental Policy.

It funds vocational training costs (up to 50% of eligible expenses) for individuals in full-time or vocational education, as well as organizations such as sail training providers, schools, youth clubs, cadet units, and RYA-accredited centers delivering hands-on maritime programs, including qualification fees, experiential learning, and capacity-building for accreditation.

Eligible applicants include individuals meeting age and residence criteria, plus community groups and academic institutions with no strict income limits, though smaller grassroots entities are favored; courses can occur anywhere, but beneficiaries must reside in priority areas. Typical grants range from £500-£5,000. Unsolicited applications are accepted via an online portal (requiring account creation and tailored forms with course details and evidence); rolling submissions are reviewed biannually at spring (April) and autumn (October) trustee meetings—apply at least two months prior, with decisions in up to six months.

Distinctively focused on practical nautical education and youth access to the marine environment, the Trust avoids unrestricted funding or direct community support, uniquely differentiating itself through its heritage-driven commitment to experiential seafaring and regional maritime equity.