Frequently Asked Questions



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?
Groups typically arrive at the dock at 10:00 am on the first day of the voyage and disembark at approximately 3:00 pm (unless otherwise arranged with the crew) on the last day of the sailing. Boarding and disembarking will typically take place at the SALTS' dock at 'Swift Street Landing' in Victoria's Upper Harbour. 

What about rough seas and seasickness?
Group trips take place within the protected waters of the Gulf Islands and on the east side of Vancouver Island. The seas rarely become rough enough to cause discomfort, unless someone is particularly sensitive to motion. If you know that you are prone to seasickness you should check with your physician for medicinal recommendations.

What are the berths like?
Each berth is a single bunk with a mattress. Bunks are in three tiers (levels that do not overlap) on each side of the ship.

Do you offer vegetarian or special diets?
With sufficient notice our cooks are able to accommodate vegetarian as well as religious and most medical dietary needs. Please see our information on Special Dietary Needs. Those with severe medical dietary restrictions must be aware that cross-contamination cannot be eliminated within the very limited space of the ship’s galley. It is therefore important that the parent/guardian or adult trainee with significant medical dietary restrictions contact the SALTS booking department to discuss the food service accommodations available, in order to make an informed decision about participation in a SALTS trip. All dietary requests must be indicated as early as possible through the online group trainee registration form or directly to our office so we can assess our ability to accommodate. Other dietary requests will be considered on an individual basis.

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

Do I need sailing experience?
No, our professional crew provide all the training required. Those with sailing experience can gain more skills and  add to their official sea time record in their SALTS Log Book. 

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

Can I recharge my camera batteries?
Yes, we do have outlets for battery chargers and these outlets are shared amongst everyone, so it is best to have some backup batteries in case you do not have access exactly when needed. Other appliances (e.g. hair dryers, iPods, computers) should be left at home.

Can I bring my musical instrument?
Please call the office in advance to make these arrangements unless your instrument can fit into your pocket. There are many opportunities to play your instrument and we love music, but we need to make sure we have space on board!

Do I need money on the trip? How much?
Other than to buy SALTS merch which is sold on board toward the end of the trip, you will not need money while you are on the ship.  On board trips, we accept cash or cheque (payable to SALTS). 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 after your trip.  Your group trip leader should provide instructions regarding any other expenses (such as meals or activities) before or after the voyage.

How safe is the boat?
Please visit our safety section.

Do I really need rubber boots?
Yes. If it is pouring rain for four hours during your watch duty, you could end up very uncomfortable and with wet shoes for the rest of the trip. You do not need to go out and purchase expensive deck boots; plain ‘gum boots’ work just fine.

Can I fish?
If you have the permission of your trip leader and the Captain agrees, and if the trip route and schedule allows, 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 may have to stow your gear on your bunk even while sleeping, 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.

What are the physical and mental health requirements?
Please see the policies section.
Does my SALTS voyage qualify toward the Duke of Edinburgh Award?
Some parts of a SALTS voyage can be used to meet certain requirements of the Duke of Edinburgh Award, such as the Gold Project but not the Adventurous Journey.  Please contact your local Duke of Edinburgh Award Leader or Division Office to confirm suitability prior to your trip.  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 to let them know what elements you are asking them to assess and provide the reporting instructions. 

What is SALTS?

SALTS, the Sail and Life Training Society, has been engaging and challenging youth through sail training since 1974.  Over 1,700 young people sail aboard our schooners Pacific Swift and Pacific Grace each year.  We sail with school and youth groups each spring and fall.  Individual young people can join our summer program for ten-day voyages that collectively circumnavigate Vancouver Island.  Between 1988-2008, we conducted several offshore voyages to exciting ports around the world.

SALTS is a not-for-profit, Christian organization that welcomes trainees from all faiths and walks of life, and respects the diversity that exists within the ship's company.  In all aspects of our programs, emphasis is on creating an environment where young people are esteemed and listened to when they talk.