As any member of the crew will attest, serving aboard Bluenose II is a life-changing time. It’s a chance to discover what it really means to work hard and meet challenges. Many come on board with no experience, and by the time the season ends, they’re amazed at what they’ve learned. The unique moments they experience stay with them long after stepping off the deck.

“It’s a test of yourself. You get to see what you’re made of and how strong you are. And you get to be out on the ocean. It’s a pretty nice job.”

​Dale Robarts - Chief Cook

 

Being part of the crew is a chance to do something few people have the opportunity to do in their lives: see and travel the ocean aboard a traditional sailing vessel, keep it moving, and visit places near and far to share it with the public.

“Every year we get up to a dozen people that may not know each other at all and they have to become a crew. Getting to know everybody and how they work best together - that’s the best challenge. We do a tremendous amount of training.”

Sophie Martel - Second Mate

 

For those who have ever indulged the idea of applying to join the crew on Bluenose II, there’s only one question to answer according to Second Mate Sophie Martell: “What else are you doing?”

 

Crew application

The sailing season for Bluenose II begins April 1^st and goes until mid October. Of the 18 or so that make up the crew, there are returning members along with many fresh faces and first time sailors. The crew includes the Captain, Chief Mate, Second Mate, as well as the Chief Cook, Engineer and approximately 12 Deckhands.

An important part of its mission is to provide youth with the chance to serve on board and experience the tradition of sailing. Every year, applications are accepted from those interested in joining Bluenose II. The selection process begins in February, with interviews in March, and crew reporting for duty on April 1^st. 

“The first day I came in, I didn’t even know the lingo. I had no idea what to do. I’ve learned so much about sailing. It’s completely opened my eyes.”   

​Amanda Rowlands​ - Deckhand