Learning to Work at Sea

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a SALTS crew-member (either as a volunteer or a professional)? What does it take to leave behind life on land, and set out to work aboard Pacific Grace or Pacific Swift along the BC coast? Our crew members each have different stories of how they ended up here and what it’s like on board, but the first year typically involves a sharp learning curve. Brock McNeill, bosun of Pacific Swift, shares his story.

Brock took his first trip, the West Coast Adventure voyage, in 2011. Sailing under the guidance of Tony Anderson, Sam Vaale, and past professional crew members, his passion for sailing and excitement for SALTS ignited. During each of the following 7 summers, Brock shared that excitement with new and returning trainees as a volunteer crew member. It wasn’t his intent to be a volunteer for so many years; he and SALTS staff discussed having him turn pro for several years, but the timing never seemed to work out. But he found the process encouraging and recognized that SALTS saw him as capable for the job. He didn’t give up on his dream, and this year we welcomed him on board as Bosun!

“Be prepared, especially when climbing aloft! It’s hard to get supplies up there once you’re set up.”

Brock McNeill, Trick of the trade #1

Thinking back to that first trip, Brock remembers excitement about learning more about sailing and experiencing the adventure of it all, but he also remembers the nerves he felt about meeting new people and being older than most of the other trainees. He put those concerns aside and learned how enabling and encouraging SALTS crew members were and he felt encouraged toward being more confident in himself and working toward what he wanted.

Coming on board with SALTS as a new crew member has required some adjustments, and we’re not just talking about building up those sea legs! Brock has been away from his wife a lot over the past six months, which required some serious effort on both of their parts to stay close. His wife Trinda has since joined him aboard Pacific Swift as the ship’s cook. Another challenge he faced was how intense the learning process was for his role as a bosun. Thankfully, the rest of the crew members were willing and eager to help him out with what he needed to learn. He’s also recognizing that working aboard a ship full-time requires an adjustment of thinking and scheduling to make sure there’s enough time to do everything that needs to be done, while also planning time for personal care. Experiencing the trips as a professional crew member, he has been surprised by how much behind-the-scenes effort, in both time and energy, goes into each trip from both shoreside staff and crew.

As he reflects on his position as bosun, Brock knows those challenges were worth it. On a weekly basis, he helps sail a tall ship, problem solves to make the boat work well, engages with trainees and teaches lessons about sailing, shows trainees the engine room and gets them interested in how the boat works, and lives an ongoing adventure, all while being a member of an awesome crew. But it’s not only those elements which attract people to the position, it’s also the truly inspiring personalized affirmations. Brock reflects, for example, on how encouraging it was when a teacher complimented his teaching style and ability to engage with the students. He also found it reassuring to hear Captain Tristan express satisfaction in his progress and problem-solving skills.

“Think through problems that might be encountered and plan for them before they even happen.”

Brock Mcneill, trick of the trade #2

Brock has lots left to learn—but then—don’t we all? He’s off to a great start in his new role. He followed the typical pathway for professional SALTS crew-members, starting as a trainee, then a volunteer crew-member, and now going pro. We’re excited for Brock (and Trinda) as they head out into the summer sailing season, and have opportunities to grow with trainees and to inspire some to follow in their footsteps.