Coming Events
Adventure, Discovery, Stewardship

Get Involved by Volunteering

 

LAKE SUPERIOR TALL SHIPS IS A GREAT PLACE TO VOLUNTEER

The Opportunities We Provide For Volunteers Are Endless.

On the lake or on shore, volunteers are a vital part of what we do here at LSTS. Whether you have a lot of nautical skills, or none, we welcome you as a volunteer. Volunteers work with professional captains to help sail our boats. We provide in-depth training to teach you the ropes, so that you can teach others. You will increase your own skills while you help our young people to develop theirs.

Never sailed before?  No problem. We’ll teach you.

Have a ton of sailing experience? Great! Come add to it and put your skills to the test in a very unique environment.

Enjoy working with kids?  Excellent. You’ll thrive with us..

Deckhand Training

When it comes to sailing, our training program can take you from standing on the dock, without ever having stepped aboard a sailing vessel, to being a qualified deckhand… if you’re willing to put in the time and effort.

Our policy with all activities for students is “challenge by choice,” and the same applies to our volunteer crew. Whether you prefer to go slowly or move as quickly as you can, LSTS's experienced crew and staff are there with enthusiasm to support you.

We’ll provide hands-on instructions. You’ll become proficient in setting, handling, and taking in all sail, steering and sailing the vessel, tying lots of knots, navigating, watch standing, marlinspike seamanship, and, above all, safety procedures used in shipboard emergencies, such as a man overboard, fire, or abandon ship scenario.

Completion of the deckhand training qualifies you as a member of our Coast Guard designated crew and rates you capable of joining our sailing crew (a drug test is also required).

Think Sailing Might Not Be For You?

Our at-sea operations require a lot of dockside support, and we always need help with them. There is a constant demand in the following areas:

  • General boat maintenance – sanding, painting, cleaning the vessels, rigging, down rigging, wiring, haul out, repairs, and bottom painting.

  • Repairs and upgrades – canvas/sails, carpentry, plumbing, mechanical and electrical projects

  • Organization support – Sea Scouts

  • Ship maintenance

  • Fundraising

  • Festival and Event hosts

  • Social media management

  • Administrative tasks

  • Marketing support

  • IT support

  • Bring your own skills, we will apply them

…and much more! If you have the knowledge or desire to learn, we have a place for you.

Whether you can pitch in on a regular basis, or you're just able to lend a hand for a single event, a rewarding and invaluable experience awaits you.

READY TO VOLUNTEER?

Choose Your Adventure