One of the coolest seasonal jobs you will ever experience is aboard the Maine windjammer Mary Day. The Maine coast is home to the largest fleet of commercial sailing tall ships in the country. Maine is a place abundant with wildlife and quiet anchorages in every bay.

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A gaff topsail schooner, Mary Day is a pure sailing vessel with no inboard engine to fall back on in a pinch. Sailing in tight quarters requires keen skills and attention to detail. Many American sailing masters have cut their teeth aboard windjammers. Entry-level positions and career-building opportunities are available for deckhands, mates, cooks, and assistant cooks. Crewing aboard a commercial sailing tall ship along the Maine coast will create skills, memories, and friendships that will last a lifetime.

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Mary Day carries a crew of 7 so only a few positions are available each season. If you love working with the public, are a team player, are looking for adventure, and are not afraid of hard work then this just might be your ticket into the world of tall ships. These are seasonal live-aboard positions. All employees working in safety-sensitive positions are required to pass a pre-employment drug screening and will be enrolled in a random testing program for the season. First aid and CPR certifications are required for some positions.

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Instructions: Click the link below to download the file. Fill in the form and save it as a PDF or print and scan the completed form. Send it to us in an email along with a resume outlining relevant experience and 3 references: captains@schoonermaryday.com

Click here to fill out an application today

           

      2024 Crew Positions      

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COOK/CHEF (1)

The most important position in the crew, the cook is responsible for

menuing, provisioning, and creating delicious “down east” fare for up

to 36 guests and crew. All food preparation is done by hand and all

meals are created using an antique wood-burning cookstove. 

In comparison, the below-deck galley is quite large and well-ventilated.

There is an assistant cook/messmate available to assist with some food prep and work under the supervision of the cook. Because of the people-oriented nature of the windjammer business, the ideal cook will be able to work in the public eye with a smile on their face and a desire to interact with guests who are excited to see what windjammer cooking is all about. While not a requirement, we have ample opportunity for the cook to be involved on deck and with small boat handling. Cooking aboard Mary Day is a very cool seasonal job working along the beautiful Maine coast. Please contact us for a complete job description.

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FIRST MATE (1)

In concert with the captain, the first mate leads the crew throughout the season, setting the example and overseeing the daily activities associated with the maintenance and sailing of the schooner. Extensive previous sailing experience is required. In addition to a good understanding of traditionally rigged vessels, the mate must have excellent small-boat handling skills. Strong social skills, good communication, and the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds are a must. USCG certifications are preferred but not required. Please contact us for a complete job description.

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DECKHANDS (3)

Deckhands work long days sailing and maintaining the schooner. Deckhands work with the mate to set, tend, and furl sails. Sailing experience is necessary along with a working knowledge of basic knots and small boat handling skills. Deckhands need to be physically fit and willing to work aloft. Deck crew is also involved with daily maintenance of the rigging and work to keep the vessel clean at all times. Deck crew must have a strong work ethic and take pride in a job well done. Please contact us for a complete job description.

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ASSISTANT COOK/MESS MATE (1)

The assistant cook commonly referred to as the messmate, is in charge of helping the cook prepare meals. The messmate is also responsible for cleaning the main cabin dining area and dishes after each meal. No prior experience is required. All that is needed is a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, great interpersonal skills, and a sense of pride in the details that make the schooner dining experience something our guests will look forward to. Applicants interested in learning about sailing and willing to help on deck are greatly appreciated. Many messmates have moved on to become deck crew. Please contact us for a complete job description.