Spring Crew Training

Our spring volunteer crew training course is a live-aboard accelerated training course covering safety procedures and an in-depth study of setting sails and knot tying. It is incredibly fun and physically demanding. No experience is required to join this class.

Join Our Spring Class

Be prepared to study and practice new skills aboard Kalmar Nyckel. This class is scheduled during our spring education season. After mastering basic skills, you will participate as sailing crew on education field trips to advance your skills.


Class Schedule

  • The three-week. live-aboard class is held every year in the spring.
  • 2027 season's dates will be announced soon.

Location

Kalmar Nyckel Foundation Shipyard, 1124 East 7th St. Wilmington, DE 19801

Crew Training Requirements

Sailing crew must be at least 18 years old, or ages 14-17 with a parent/guardian approval.

  • All participants must be physically able to safely perform all basic crew responsibilities on deck, as dictated by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation. This includes climbing vertical ladders, climbing onto the fore deck, hauling lines, and assisting passengers during emergencies. Participants are NOT required to climb the rigging.
  • A background check is required for all crew. This fee is in addition to your registration fee. 
  • Participation in the USCG random drug testing program is required.
  • Volunteers must be able to travel to and from Wilmington, DE. 

 

Registration fee

A non-refundable registration fee of $209 is required once your registration is approved. Please DO NOT send payment with your application.

  • $184 is payable to the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation. This includes your materials, food, and a mandatory U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) drug test.
  • $25 is payable to Intellicorp, our online background check company (additional fees apply to international background checks).

Application process

  • Fill out the interest form below.
  • In February/March, we will send an invitation to participate to prospective trainees in the order in which we received your inquiry. This class is limited to six people and fills fast, on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Please respond to the e-mail we will send you, and we will forward next steps to confirm your spot in the class.
Interest Form