Winter Crew Training

Experience the lost art of square-rig sailing during our immersive Winter Crew Training class. Enjoy hands-on training and presentations on ship and shore as you learn to sail the Kalmar Nyckel.

Join Our Crew

During this 10-week class, you can learn maritime history, knot tying, safety drills, line handling, setting sails, and practical seamanship, while you make new friends. Each week, our Captain and dedicated crew mentors will present new material and hands-on lessons that utilize our indoor ¾-scale model of the ship’s deck as well as the ship itself.


Upon completion of the class, passing the final exam, and volunteering 20 hours, you will be eligible to sail on board the Kalmar Nyckel. We sail locally and voyage to ports from Virginia to Massachusetts, with a crew of 18-24.


Crew Training Requirements

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


2026 Class Schedule


Dates for the crew training class are Saturdays from January 17-April 11, 2026.  Note that we are off from class several Saturdays during this time to allow for some family time, study time, or maintenance time between the classes.


The first two classes are on zoom.  The rest of the classes are in person.  Some are 1/2 day, some are full day, as follows:

Jan 17 (zoom 9am-12:30pm)

Jan 24 (zoom)

Jan 31 (half day-9am-12:30pm)

Feb 7 (full day-9am-4pm)

Feb 14 (half day)

Feb 21 (full day)

Feb 28 (half day)

March 14 (full day)

March 28 (half day)

April 11 (half day)


No more than 2 absences are permitted, and all full day classes you miss must be made-up.  These classes will focus on smaller group hands-on sessions.  We will offer make-up classes typically on Thursday nights, but are flexible to work with your schedule.


Location

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


Registration fees


The total winter session training fee is $134.  All deposits are non-refundable.

  • $110 is payable to the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation to reserve your spot in the class. This includes your materials and a mandatory U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) drug test.
  • $24 is payable to Intellicorp, an online background check company. 
  • Manuals will be ready for pick up at the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation on the last week in December or first week in January, or you may pay $10 to have it shipped to you.


Register for Winter Crew Training 2026