May - August

A dedicated training cruise is scheduled after Easter, allowing the new Deck Hands to put all the theory into practise and experience ‘watch on watch’ seamanship, seven days a week. This is the beginning of the sea- based training which runs parallel with the normal commercial activities of each ship until the end of the course. On board lectures and tutorials will continue throughout this period although the accent is placed on mastering practical skills. Task books listing the criteria for each successive level monitor the progress of individual Deck Hands who may, upon satisfactory examination, be upgraded to Ordinary Seaman status for the duration of the course. Every opportunity is given to each Deck hand to advance, including one-to-one tutorials, revisions, extra lectures etc. By mid August, all criteria listed in task books must have been satisfied and all practical projects completed. A further written examination, oral and practical tests will enable successful candidates to be issued with their ‘Able Seaman’ Certificate at the end of August.

On-going charter, film or festival commitments afford the new ‘AB’s' an opportunity to volunteer for extended sailing up to the ‘lay-up’ period which normally begins early October. This has proved a popular option as it allows the new AB’s the chance to specialize in a particular field e.g. sailmaking, rigging etc.

The Course Curriculum is detailed in the Course Prospectus section.