How to get a job on a sailboat-

Question

I live in (around) Washington DC and I've got a great job M-F (art director at a trade show design firm). I am looking to be an extra "hand" on a sailboat on the weekends. I'm not looking to be paid, I just want to gain experience and knowledge of how to operate a sailboat (lunch would be nice too). I'm very laid back, and a very hard worker at the same time.

I understand its getting late in the season to start trying to find a boat to work on now, so any info for next summer would be appreciated as well.

Thanks!

Answer 1

if you're young and easy to go with - do the dock walk. Go to the next marina with the kind of boats you like and ask. You will need to find somebody who likes you and is willing to teach you something. The hard working will be on the teachers side. You can also try and offer a hand at the end of the season for the works to be done, that might get your foot into the door. But again, much to learn.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Peyton,

I started my sailing by buying my own boat.  This is really not necessary.

1.  Do you know anyone that has a boat, or crews for someone.  Racing is generally where this comes in.  If you know someone, this is your start.

2.  If you do not know anyone that is sailing, another good place to start would be to contact either the local squadron of the U. U. Power Squadrons (they are really about 6 to 4 sailors to power boaters) they may have some members that always like to have assistance.  there is also the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

3.  Find out what sail boat racing goes on locally - the fun stuff, just around the buoys, called beer can races here.  Not always, but sometimes they will take on extra crew that is willing to learn and work.

There is a lot of fun to be had out there, just get out there and be part of it.

Answer 3

go to a local marina and ask if anyone needs and help

Answer 4

If you actually want to do this for the experience,

I suggest - rather then wasting your time looking for individuals - that you take a sailing lesson or two where they have a large "Sailing Club".  Many (if not most) of these "Clubs" are really mostly about connecting Skippers with crew... In fact, most Clubs sponsor sailing Regattas and Races for all kinds of class and type sailboats, and many of the skippers would like to participate in these (mostly weekend) activities - but can't find crew... Ya know, stuff like the wife loves sailing but hates racing - cause the old man is yelling commands at her all day... lol

I am a full-time live aboard, and I give Sailing Lessons during the week at my Marina... Usually, after just one or two lessons - we can get "our" new Sailor hooked up and booked up to sail with someone every weekend.  Some in fact (the good ones that actually like to work the lines, sail and learn - actually are in such demand they can pick and choose the boat or Skipper they want to sail with.

Boat owners (especially sailboat owners) can come across as being very snobish and persnickidy and some actually are... (well, at least until they get to know you and you them.)  So, I wouldn't count on much luck walking around a Marina in a Sail boat community with not having any business there. If you approach individuals - your likely to come across as a free-loading boat bum - and they don't really know if you want to know how to sail - or want to see what you can rip off.

So... take a lesson or two - get into the groove - get welcomed into the fold...

When you visit the larger Marinas, look for the "Sailing Lessons" sign, go to the office first and inquire about Lessons, Clubs, Regattas, Crew opportunities... make yourself legitimate first, so that you have a legitimate reason for "hanging out" at the Marina...

Its all about "networking" just like at work and in your career field - get in the door with a lesson or two - get introduced - let everyone know your eager to learn and go...

Happy & Safe Boating!

Answer 5

Think your best bet Peyton would be to visit the marinas in our area and see if there are any owners you can speak with about this. Boat owners love to talk and offer advice so take them up on it.

Downtown DC has marinas along the waterfront; there are 2 on the GW Parkway; plenty of them in Maryland and VA waters as well but most of the larger sailboats will be in MD. Don't rule out smaller ones either as they too can provide you with the experience needed to move up to the larger units.

Good luck & happy sailing!!!

ADD ON TO RESPONSE: Capt John gives a good answer and I guess that s/boaters are a lil' different that we p/boaters! I'd still try walking the docs and see what you can find out for it's free and shoot, we've got great weather headin' our way in DC in the next couple of weeks! Never hurts to ask, right? Good luck!!!

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