Independent Study Crew Training
If you’re an experienced square-rigged sailor interested in volunteering on a well-run ship, this program is for you. The Kalmar Nyckel offers an exciting opportunity to work with our officers to learn more about sailing the Tall Ship of Delaware and our extensive volunteer program.
Program Schedule
This program is offered when our sailing schedule allows. Typical starting dates are planned in early-April or late June (and subject to change). We will choose a location based on your availability and the ship's schedule. Our home berth is the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation Shipyard, 1124 East 7th St., Wilmington, DE 19801.
How To Apply
Registration Fee
A non-refundable registration fee of $126.75 is due once your registration is approved. Please DO NOT send payment with your application.
- $105 is payable to the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation. This includes your materials, food and a mandatory U.S. Coast Guard drug test. If you are currently enrolled in a random drug testing program and can provide proper paperwork from your employer/current boat, your cost is only $60 to KNF and the background check noted below.
- $21.75 is payable to an online background check company. Additional fees apply to international background checks.
Room and board are provided in exchange for all of your hard work.
To apply for an independent study, please submit a resume of your sailing experience and references. We will schedule an interview and review your application. Then we will contact you with a decision.
Once you are accepted, we will schedule a start and end date for your independent study. At that time, we will request a non-refundable payment for training materials and completion of an initial drug test. We will send you materials so you can start studying.
There are two required applications:
1. Independent study crew application
2. Kalmar Nyckel Foundation’s volunteer application
You can submit your applications by email or by mail.
Contact us and attach your application or mail to:
Kalmar Nyckel Foundation, Attn: Capt. Sharon, 1124 E. 7th Street, Wilmington, DE 19801.
COVID-19 vaccination cards are required for all volunteer participation. Our COVID policies are updated on our site.