Sailing Policy

Beginning in the 2025 sailing season, crew must meet the following requirements to be eligible to join Gazela on a training sail or longer voyage. Unsure if you're eligible? Check your status by sending us an email.

For trips 1-4 days long:

• must be a current member

• must have worked at least one event in the previous 12 months

• must have at least 10 volunteer hours since November 1st of the previous year

• must have attended the following Level I Classes after 2022 (Good Shipmate, Line handling)

For trips 5+ days:

• must be a current member

• must have worked at least one event in the previous 12 months

• must have at least 40 volunteer hours since November 1st of the previous year

• must have attended the following Level I Classes after 2022 (Good Shipmate, Line Handling)

Sign ups are first come first serve. Exceptions below. You can review our crew training classes and sign up for the next session through our Crew Training Class page. Not an active member? Sign up or renew your membership here.

The following exceptions may be made:

• A volunteer/member that has not had the opportunity to work an event, take the classes or get the # of hours needed.

  • There hasn't been an available spot to work an event since member started

  • Lives a significant distance away - 100+ miles (only event requirement to be waived)

  • New member or volunteer (1 month or less)

  • Health reasons

• Captain, mate positions - to bring in experience from outside the guild to enhance our knowledge - with Sailing Committee approval.

• Engineer, bosun, watch leader and cook positions IF those positions are not filled and with Sailing Committee approval.

• If you qualify for any of the above exceptions, contact volunteer@philashipguild.org.