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 the 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.


If you are local to Wilmington, DE and can make the 19-day commitment, we will make it work for you.


Class Schedule

  • The 3 week live-aboard class is held every year in May.
  • May 2024 May 6th-May 24th, 2024

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 aged 14-17 with a parent/guardian.
  • All KNF staff and volunteers are encouraged to stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations per CDC recommendations.
  • Ship’s staff (employees of the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation) and live aboard volunteers staying more than three months are required to be fully vaccinated plus have at least one COVID-19 booster. Our COVID policies are updated on our site.
  • 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 $186.75 is required once your registration is approved. Please DO NOT send payment with your application.

  • $165 is payable to the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation. This includes your materials, food and a mandatory U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) drug test.
  • $21.75 is payable to Intellicorp, our online background check company (additional fees apply to international background checks).


Application process

  • Fill out the interest form below.
  • Once dates are determined, we will send an invitation to participate to prospective trainees, in the order in which we received your inquiries.  This class is limited to 6 people and fills fast, on a first come, first served basis.
  • Respond to that e-mail and we will send you the next step to confirm your place in the spring class.
Interest Form
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