How to Find a Sailing Crew

Sailing, once a mainstay of global commerce, is today a relaxing water sport. Although some sailors choose to hit the wind and waves solo, most skippers are eager for extra hands to haul the sheets and trim the sails. With careful preparation, including background checks and a test voyage, any captain can find crew to help win the race or deliver the boat.

Things You'll Need

  • Sailboat
  • Internet access
  • Crew intake forms
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Instructions

  1. Find Prospective Crewmembers

    • 1

      Find candidates for your crew through online sailing community ads or posting signs at local regattas or yacht rallies.

    • 2

      Prepare a sailor intake form that all prospective crew must complete--it should include any certifications, total sea hours and special skills.

    • 3

      Host a reception aboard ship or at the slip for all candidates who meet minimum screening criteria. Explain the duration of the voyage, potential compensation and special skills required.

    Sea Trials

    • 4

      Narrow the list of candidates down through reviewing intake forms and conducting personal interviews.

    • 5

      Schedule a sea trial with every candidate still interested in the position. The trial should be held at a convenient time and should last no longer than six hours--a gentle sail around the bay or just offshore will be enough.

    • 6

      Observe each candidate's comfort level with the open water--watch footing, adherence to the safety briefing and respect for the interconnectedness of on-duty crew functions. Each candidate should have a hand doing something to demonstrate his abilities across all stations, including navigation and helm.

    • 7

      Watch each candidate's interactions. Is she a loner? Does he intrude on personal space? Do a pair continue to argue when something minor goes awry? Pay attention to the little things; small annoyances will be magnified during a blue-water voyage.

    Offer

    • 8

      Offer crew positions based on their sea trials. For those who don't make the cut, be polite and offer constructive criticism where appropriate.

    • 9

      Enroll the new crew member in the ship's books and make the necessary arrangements to communicate this information to those who need to know (for example, a ship's master or an insurer).

    • 10

      Provide the new crew member with departure information and, as necessary, a weight limit for her sailing kit. Make sure any special accommodations (such as medications) are addressed before the final safety briefing.