IT is a picture that captures the true essence of life sailing the seven seas.

Now Southampton pupil Sam Hall’s stunning drawing has won him and his year-seven classmates at Bitterne Park Secondary School a trip to remember to Buckler’s Hard Maritime Museum in the New Forest.

The entry was chosen by TV history show presenter Dan Snow after hundreds of children across the city took part in the Daily Echo-run competition.

Sam’s drawing of a large boat surrounded by flocks of seagulls brought back memories for Dan of his childhood when he used to regularly visit Bucklers Hard.

He said: “We used to go down to Buckler’s Hard every weekend to sail my dad’s boat down the Beaulieu River and walk along its banks. They were very happy childhood memories.

“Reliving the past is an exciting adventure which every child needs to go on and Buckler’s Hard gives them the perfect opportunity,” he added.

“Designing a ship was a fun experience and showed great imagination.”