2027 Square Rigger 101 Training

Learn to Sail Aboard a Historic Tall Ship

There’s something extraordinary about working aboard a historic sailing ship. From handling lines to understanding the rigging, every task connects you to centuries of maritime tradition.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego’s 2027 Square Rigger 101 Program introduces new volunteers to the skills, responsibilities, and teamwork involved in operating our historic sailing fleet for a special celebration.

We’re looking for enthusiastic individuals who enjoy learning, working with others, and taking on new challenges. No previous sailing experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn, a commitment to safety, and the dedication to become part of the crew.

What You’ll Learn

Square Rigger 101 introduces participants to traditional seamanship and the responsibilities of working aboard historic sailing vessels.

Training combines classroom instruction, practical experience, teamwork, and guidance from experienced Museum sailors.

Participants will learn about:

• Traditional seamanship and sailing practices.
• Historic sailing vessels and their equipment.
• Safe working practices aboard ship.
• Teamwork and communication among crew members.
• The skills and responsibilities of a working sail crew.

Sailing aboard a historic vessel requires commitment, physical participation, attention to safety, and the ability to work cooperatively with others.

Successful completion of the program requires meeting the applicable training and qualification standards. Attendance alone does not guarantee qualification for sailing duties.

Becoming a Museum Volunteer

Square Rigger 101 participants must complete the Maritime Museum of San Diego’s volunteer onboarding requirements.

These include:

• Submitting an official volunteer application and signed waiver.
• Maintaining active Museum membership.
• Providing proof of current medical insurance.
• Providing valid state or federal photo identification.
• Meeting any additional Sail Crew-specific requirements.

The Museum’s Volunteer Coordinator will review applications and assist candidates with the necessary onboarding steps.

Sail Crew Drug Screening Requirements

The Museum’s sailing operations are subject to U.S. Coast Guard requirements. Sail Crew participants must meet the Museum’s required drug-screening standards.

Marijuana is prohibited under the applicable federal testing requirements, regardless of its legal status under California law.

Participants are responsible for the cost of their initial required drug test. The Museum subsequently covers the costs of maintaining the testing program through its independent provider, including required random testing.

Additional instructions will be provided as candidates progress through the program.

Training and Qualifications

All Sail Crew members must demonstrate the knowledge and physical skills required for their assignments aboard the Museum’s historic sailing vessels.

Qualification testing opportunities are offered throughout the year, including quarterly opportunities for new participants.

Written Examinations

Crew members continue annual written testing until they achieve scores of at least 80% in two consecutive years.

Once this requirement is satisfied, routine annual written testing is no longer required unless the examination or qualification requirements change.

Annual Physical Qualifications

Every Sail Crew member must complete the required physical qualification testing each March, regardless of when they initially qualified.

There are no exceptions to the annual March physical qualification requirement.

Additional qualifications and evaluations may apply depending on a volunteer’s assigned duties.

Orientation and Getting Started

All new Square Rigger 101 candidates must attend the December 9, 2026, Square Rigger Training Orientation.

This orientation is specifically for the Square Rigger Program and is separate from the Museum’s General Volunteer Orientation.

Candidates who wish to begin volunteering in other Museum departments before January may attend an earlier General Volunteer Orientation and complete the necessary onboarding steps.

However, attending General Volunteer Orientation does not replace the mandatory December 9 Orientation.

Current Museum Sail Crew volunteers are welcome to attend the Orientation but do not need to submit a new Square Rigger 101 application.

How to Apply

Ready to begin your journey as a volunteer sailor?

Complete the official 2027 Square Rigger 101 Volunteer Application through the Museum’s Volgistics volunteer application system.

After submitting your application, you will receive an acknowledgment. Your application and orientation registration will be reviewed, and you will receive further instructions regarding the next steps.

Please note: Submission of an application does not constitute final acceptance into the training program.

Apply for Square Rigger 101, application deadline is December 7, 2026

Questions? Contact Our Volunteer Office

If you have questions about Square Rigger 101, volunteer requirements, or the application process, please contact our Volunteer Office.

Maritime Museum of San Diego
Volunteer Office
Contact Our Volunteer Office
Phone: (619) 234-9153, ext. 129

Welcome to the Crew!

Volunteering at the Maritime Museum of San Diego is about more than learning to sail. It’s an opportunity to preserve maritime history, develop new skills, form lasting friendships, and become part of a remarkable community.

Our experienced volunteers bring a wealth of knowledge and a willingness to share it with those who are ready to learn.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard!