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?
You should plan to arrive at the dock by 10:00 am on the first day of the voyage to check-in and disembark at approximately 3:00 pm on the last day of the sailing. Boarding and disembarking will take place at the SALTS' dock at 'Swift Street Landing' in Victoria's Upper Harbour. 

What about rough seas and seasickness?
The Family Connection Voyage takes 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 or pharmacist 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 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 aim to sail every day for at least part of the day, provided the wind and weather are suitable.

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, tablets, etc) 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 if you would like to buy SALTS merchandise, which can be pre-ordered in advance or purchased after the trip through our office, you will not need money while you are on the ship. 

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 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.

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.  During our regular programs, we sail with school and youth groups each spring/fall and individual young people join our summer program for ten-day voyages that collectively circumnavigate Vancouver Island. 

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.  We seek to create an environment that is caring and respectful, where people are encouraged and inspired.  Our crew-members seek to find common ground with people of other 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. We believe that every person has intrinsic value and is worthy of love.