As ancient as sailing vessels, which have traversed the oceans for millennia, is the practice of taking on crews to help man them. Modern-day adventure seekers can travel the world the same way.
One traveller seeking an adventurer was a young Polish backpacker. He waited in Kota Kinabalu to talk to skippers just completing the 'Sail East Malaysia Rally'. Making contact with one skipper and agreeing to assist with sailing the vessel, Paul secured a passage on the catamaran 'Hybreasail,' which was returning to Australia.
Why do Skippers Take on Crew
Skippers often seek out crew when contemplating sea and ocean passages. These long-haul journeys can be taxing, especially if one is sailing alone, or short handed. Hybreasail's skipper felt that he needed to take on crew in order to return to Australia as quickly as possible
Sometimes it's as simple as a lone sailor wanting company. Taking on casual crew can alleviate many of the long lonely hours on the water. Alternatively it could be that children on board require a person to look after them during the voyage.
How to Find a Crewing Position
Some effective ways to find a position include:
- Placing an ad on a marina notice board.
- Skippers post travel destinations and list crew requirements on marina notice boards.
- Ships Chandler is a good location for prospective sailors to look for advertisements for crew.
- Yacht clubs are prime places for seeking out and speaking to skippers.
- Specific websites have been developed dedicated to linking prospective crew with a vessels seeking crew.
What Does it Cost to Crew
It is important when discussing costs to keep matters as simple as possible. Therefore before even starting the journey, have the skipper write up a cost/expenses sheet. This will allow all parties to understand what expenses may be incurred. Each crew member pays for their own customs entry and exit visas. The skipper should be able to estimate what these costs may be.
The skipper will generally factor in the overall cost of the journey to include food, fuel and water costs. These are the items that are generally paid for on a share basis. Marina costs may also be shared, however this is a point that requires discussion as many skippers will see this as a vessel expense and make no charge.
Be aware that all personal expenses are paid for by the individual. Alcohol (booze) is considered a personal need and is purchased by the individual. No skipper will pay for anything not relevant to the boat or the running of the vessel.
How to Apply for a Position
Here are a few tips that can be used when applying for a position:
- Give as much detail about any prior sailing experiences undertaken.
- Include references relevant to the situation.
- Give details of prior travel.
- Indicate where willing to picking up with the vessel.
- Ask questions.
- Above all - Be passionate about the reason for wanting to be a crew member.
The skipper has the best interests of the vessel and her crew in mind. Remember, the skipper makes the final call and will expect the crew to follow instructions. Be aware that you are crewing on someone else's boat, so act accordingly. The consumption of alcohol is arguably one of the most talked about issues. On most vessels as a safety measure, NO alcohol is consumed during a sea or ocean crossing. Skippers do not mind a drink whilst at anchor, but don't consume someone else's unless invited. It will save a lot of anger and frustration.
Travel Destinations
Any number of options are available for the adventurous traveller. Yachts have taken on crew for passage through Asia, the Caribbean, through the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean. Crew members have set forth from the Americas through the Pacific to New Zealand, Australia, Africa and beyond.
Adventure seekers such as Paul who crewed on the catamaran 'Hybreasail' experienced an adventure that the majority of travellers seldom have. He was fortunate to sail past volcanic islands, sandy coral cays, the remotest of tropical paradises and the dirtiest of fishing villages, all in the one voyage. The trick for any adventure traveler to remember is to remain open to all options. Have an ability to see past the fact that the cabin may be cramped. Understand that clothes may stay dirty and salt encrusted for days on end and that food, although nutritious may be less than appetizing. Most sailing experiences will offer an adventure that no amount of money could recreate, no travel company could produce, indeed crewing on a sailing vessel is worth every seasick pill swallowed.
Paul enjoyed the experience so much he went on to make a number of other sea voyages around the Asia Pacific area. Last heard, he was heading off to Africa before undertaking to cross to the Caribbean. he called his sailing experience “one hell of a fantastic trip and was an adventure of a lifetime”.
Remember, there are Risks
Whilst the decision to be a crew member remains an individual one, if at any stage one feels uncomfortable about taking up the offer the suggestion is - don't . Sometimes personalities clash, but changes of personal can only be done in port where ships records can be changed accordingly. Sometimes the situation becomes dangerous. Where piracy is a concern remember that although sailing is a hugely exciting way to travel it can also be a risky affair. If you choose to set sail, enjoy the experience and remember, you may never pass this way again.
Sources:
Parania Wilson, Interview with a backpacker - Paul Killen.
Hybreasail 'Log Notes Borneo – Australia'.
Internet reference www.cruiser.com.za/crewfinder.asp Notes on finding a crewing position.
Parania Wilson - Parania attained her degree with a double major in welfare and sociology then spent a number of years in welfare working in Mental Health, ...
