3rdCB is one of only 101 Sea Scout Groups in the country to have Royal Navy recognition, and these groups are generally regarded as the best in the country.

Sea Scouting in the U.K. began in 1908, one year after the establishment of scouting itself. During World War I Sea Scouts performed duties as coastal lookouts and messengers and, in recognition of these deeds, were formally recognised by the Admiralty Board in 1919, this allowed them access to Naval equipment and facilities whilst still remaining independent of any Naval control.

Sea Scout Ensign

During World War II the scheme was converted so that Sea Scout groups who show themselves able to reach certain levels of proficiency could apply for stores and grants to help train young men in basic seamanship before entering military service. The scheme has been running since then, overseen by the Second Sea Lord and regulated by a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Scout Association.

Although there are some 425-450 Sea Scout groups throughout the UK, the MoD recognises a maximum of 101. In order to remain in the scheme groups must maintain high standards. Any Sea Scout group can apply for recognition subject to certain criteria laid down in the MOA.

Admiralty Pennant

Unlike the Sea Cadet Corps, Sea Scouts are not financially supported by the MoD, apart from an annual capitation grant to the Scout Association. The driving force behind groups applying for and remaining in the Royal Naval recognition scheme is the kudos and associated pride. Only 101 of the 450 Sea Scout Groups are recognised at any one time.

Every 2 years we are inspected by the Royal Navy Staff Officer to check that our standards are meeting the required level. To show that we are an admiralty group, we wear the blue admiralty badge on our uniform and are entitled to fly a Red Ensign defaced with the Scout badge and Admiralty Crown, and the Admiralty Pennant.

Adopted Warships

As an RN group, we have in the past been affiliated to a Royal Navy warship. Previous ships include:

Solebay Scout Troop are named after the Sea Ranger Crew’s original adopted ship, HMS Solebay.