Our Mission
Our mission is “to develop the spiritual, relational, and physical potential of young people through sail training, shipboard life, and associated activities in a Christian environment” (e.g. an environment of love, grace, humility, and authenticity).
We welcome everybody, from all walks of life, into our community. We believe that every person has intrinsic value and is worthy of love. We seek to create an environment that is caring and respectful, where young people are encouraged and inspired. We believe that love is the greatest cause in the world, and that our highest calling in our relationships is to love one another. We invest in the lives of others, young people in particular, to challenge and enable growth. SALTS is an independent, non-denominational Christian-based charity, operating in a multi-faith community in which our Society members, donors, volunteers, and program participants come from all backgrounds, beliefs, sexual orientations, gender identities, and walks of life. SALTS does not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, or any other protected ground.
Our crew-members seek to find common ground with people of all worldviews, adopting a posture of learning and humility. Our programs allow for friendly and open dialogue about many points of view while seeking to find shared values. Before meals, crew-members often invite expressions of gratitude. Depending on which group is aboard the ship, this may include saying or singing a prayer, inviting silent reflection, or initiating sharing of what people are grateful for. We sing at evening mug-up, and our songbook contains hundreds of options including top 40 hits (current and past), sea shanties, and spirituals like Amazing Grace. On summer voyages (not school/group trips) we hold a simple faith-based service on the seventh day of the voyage. Our crew-members are sensitive to the unique needs of each group and are happy to discuss those needs with group leaders or individual trainees.
We regularly receive feedback about the positive and transformative experiences young people have on board through the close community that forms and the challenges they overcome by living and working together at sea. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.
We respect and acknowledge the First Nations traditional territories in which we live, work, and sail, including the lək̓ʷəŋən peoples traditional territories where our home port is located. We explore and find joy in the beauty of the earth and believe that caring for this planet is our sacred responsibility.
