Each summer, between the end of June and the beginning of September, TBI’s Brigantines can be found visiting ports around the Great Lakes. While the vessels are commanded by Transport Canada-licensed Captains, the Crew members are seasoned teenagers who have two to five-years experience sailing with TBI. Trainees join the ships for 7 – 14 day training courses, and are assigned to one of three rotating Watches, operating the ships on a 24-hour schedule. Trainees learn the basics of sail handling, seamanship, teamwork and leadership from the Crew members while experiencing the thrills and challenges of living and working aboard a tall ship.

As a trainee, no previous experience is required – the youth officers of TS Playfair and STV Pathfinder will teach you everything you need to know.

There are 3 simple requirements for the summer youth courses:

• You must be 13 to 18 years of age.
  
• You must be physically and mentally fit.
• You must be able to swim 100 meters and then immediately be able to tread water for 10 minutes without fatigue.

You can expect fun, challenge, and the memorable experience of sailing as part of the crew of a tall ship. You will sail day and night, and normally moor on every second or third day. During the day at sea there are training sessions, watch duty, and free time. Shore leave may be given during port visits to explore and enjoy some leisure time.

You’ll learn traditional seamanship skills such as: setting and dousing sail, tacking, gybing, wearing ship, shipboard terminology and procedures, knots, and helmsmanship. Safety procedures include man overboard and fire drills, reefing sail, and preparations for heavy weather.