Frequently Asked Questions

Image by Justin Laverdiere

What is sail training?
Sail training is more than learning how to sail. Sail training is about character development and personal growth in the context of a close-knit community on board the ship. It provides intensive life experiences to stimulate leadership development, team building, a heightened awareness of nature, and an appreciation of historical sailing vessels. Sail training develops confidence, environmental stewardship, courage, strength, and humility. In the process, trainees learn all aspects of sailing the ship, such as navigation, sailing terms, parts of the ship, wheel operation, galley chores, line and sail handling, knots, etc.

When and where do I board and disembark the ship?
Boarding times are typically 11:00am for Victoria departures and 1:00pm for departures outside Victoria. The expected disembarking time for all trips is 11:30am. Each trainee will receive an email link to their trip specific boarding details and travel tips which will also be posted on the Summer Trip Planner page of our website early in the new year.  Please be aware that times are subject to change in response to schedule changes by airline and other travel providers. 

How can I arrange transportation and accommodation for before/after the voyage?
Trainees (and their families) are responsible for making their own travel arrangements; however, SALTS will post  basic information and links to transportation and accommodations providers that service the boarding and disembarking locations of each trip on the Summer Trip Planner page of our website early in the new year, once airlines and other transportation providers confirm their summer schedules. Trainees who are interested in sharing travel information or connecting with other trainees registered for the same trip, can join the Travel Share List by checking the box on the Trainee Profile Form.  Many accommodation and transportation options can also be found at www.hellobc.com.

What about rough seas and seasickness?
Trips that take place within the protected waters of the Gulf Islands and on the east side of Vancouver Island are less likely to encounter rough seas, however, everyone's sensitivity to motion sickness is different and seasickness may be encountered any time one ventures out on the water.  Some of our summer trips navigate more open waters such as the Hecate Strait and the west coast of Vancouver Island where seasickness is common; however, most trainees typically become acclimated and comfortable on the larger seas after a few days. Trainees who experience seasickness often look back on it as a challenge they overcame and that it brought them closer to their shipmates. Many report that it would never deter them from sailing again and that it was well worth it to experience the rugged and beautiful west coast! If you know that you are prone to seasickness, you should check with a pharmacist or your physician for medicinal recommendations.

What are the berths like?
Each berth is a single bunk with a mattress. Bunks are arranged in three tiers (not directly over each other) on each side of the ship and divided between two compartments; the hold and the fo’c’sle. Each compartment has a small (single occupant) washroom called a “head”.

Can you accommodate vegetarian or special dietary needs?
With sufficient notice our cooks can manage vegetarian, religious and some medical dietary needs. Dietary requests must be indicated as early as possible through the online Trainee Profile Form or by contacting our office. More restrictive dietary requests will be considered on a case-by-case and trip-by-trip basis through consultation with SALTS' staff and medical advisors. 
 
Those with severe medical dietary restrictions must be aware that the possibility of cross-contamination cannot be completely eliminated within the very confined space of the ship’s galley. It is therefore important to contact the SALTS booking department to discuss the trainee's needs and what food service accommodations are possible in order to make an informed decision about participation in a SALTS trip.  

How often do we go ashore?
We try to get ashore once per day, weather permitting.

Who will be on board my sailing trip?
Each ship can accommodate 28 trainees on a summer trip. Typically fourteen female and fourteen male trainees bunk in separate holds (compartments) of the boat. SALTS welcomes trainees from all backgrounds, beliefs, and walks of life. Nine crew members supervise, instruct and lead sail training activities and shore excursions.

Do I need sailing experience?
No, anyone aged 13 - 24 can sail on one of our summer trips (provided they meet the Physical and Mental Fitness Requirements). We do all the training required.

How much will we sail?
We sail as much as the wind and weather will allow.

Can I recharge my camera or phone battery?
There are only a few electrical outlets which are shared by everyone on board, so it’s best to have a backup power pack in case you don’t have access to an outlet when your battery is low. Cell phones must be in AIRPLANE MODE and only used as a camera for the duration of the trip, so they shouldn’t need to be charged very often. Other electronics and appliances (e.g. hair dryers, computers, etc.) should be left at home.

Can I bring my musical instrument?
Please contact us in advance to make these arrangements unless your instrument can fit into your pocket.  Music is an important part of the SALTS experience and it may be possible to borrow one of the ship's instruments. If you do bring your own instrument you must be prepared to stow it on your bunk where it could be subject to jostling by the ship's movement or others climbing over. As with any personal items brought on board, SALTS cannot be responsible for damage or loss.

Do I need money on the trip? How much?
Other than to buy SALTS merchandise sold on board, you will not need money during the voyage.  On board trips, we accept cash or cheque (payable to SALTS). Merch purchases by VISA/Mastercard can be arranged through the SALTS office by phone (250-383-6811 ext. 5) or by visiting the SALTS office in person.   However, you will need to be prepared for expenses before and after your voyage, such as travel or meals, based on your individual plans. We recommend that you not carry large amounts of cash.

How safe is the boat?
SALTS has been taking young people to sea since 1974 and our sail training safety record is second to none in the industry. Our ships have safely traveled over 365,000 nautical miles (17 times the earth’s circumference). Visit our Safety page for more details about how SALTS prioritizes safety through our ships, our crew and our programs.

Do I really need rubber boots?
Yes. Boots are not only for when it's raining, but also for when the decks are being hosed down each morning. It is possible to have lengthy rainy periods, even during the summer season, and once shoes get wet, they could stay that way for the entire trip. Expensive deck boots are not needed; plain ‘gum boots’ or short rubber boots will work just fine.

Can I fish?
If the trip route and schedule allows, and the Captain agrees, it is possible. You must have the appropriate fishing license and all regulations must be followed. If you intend to bring fishing equipment, know that you must stow your gear on your bunk as storage on board is limited and objects on the floor are tripping hazards. As with any personal items brought on board, SALTS cannot be responsible for damage or loss.

Does my SALTS voyage qualify toward the Duke of Edinburgh Award?
Some parts of a SALTS voyage can be used to meet some of the skills and physical recreation elements of the Duke of Edinburgh Award, as well as the Gold Project but not the  Adventurous Journey. Contact your local Duke of Edinburgh Award Leader or Division Office to confirm suitability prior to your trip.  The Duke of Ed Award encourages self directed goal setting, decision making and perseverance so it's the participant's responsibility to ensure that their activities meet the qualifications. We ask that you notify us in advance if you plan to fulfill Duke of Ed objectives during your trip. You must discuss your objectives with your Watch Officer at the very beginning of the trip , let them know what elements you are asking them to assess and how they will report the assessment. 

What are the physical or mental health requirements?
Some conditions, as described in our Physical and Mental Fitness Policy, may preclude participation in a SALTS summer voyage. All medical and mental health conditions and all medications to be brought on board must be reported and accepted by SALTS prior to finalizing the trip assignment.