Question 1

What do I have to bring with me on board?

Accepted Answer

You can find our packing list here.(chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://mcusercontent.com/5953cdae08ef785c5db9c2205/files/daa4b602-12b7-62b3-2d0c-4bc4925df175/Fair_Jeanne_2025_Gear_List.pdf)

Question 2

Can I bring my phone with me on board?

Accepted Answer

Yes, however it will be handed in and stored with the captain while underway and can be used during shore leave.

Question 3

I have food restrictions, can they be accomodated?"

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our cooks are able to accommodate participants who are vegetarian, have a nuts and seeds allergy as well as gluten intolerances. Just let us know in advance so that our cooks have time to make the proper meal preparations.

Question 4

What if I don't like the food that is being served?

Accepted Answer

Don't worry. Eating is an important part of the voyage.  Simply let the cook know and they can provide you with something else.

Question 5

Am I allowed to have more food if I'm still hungry?

Accepted Answer

Yes. No one should leave the table still feeling hungry. If there aren’t anymore leftovers, the cook can get you some snacks.

Question 6

Can I have snacks with me in my bunk?

Accepted Answer

No. All food must be kept in the galley. Trainees are not to bring their own food unless pre-arranged due to specific individual food restrictions.

Question 7

Do I need to know how to sail prior to coming on board?

Accepted Answer

No. You do not need any prior sailing experience to participate in one of our camps. The crew members are there to teach you everything you'll need to know and more!

Question 8

I am afraid of heights. Do I have to climb aloft if I don't want to?

Accepted Answer

No. If you would rather keep your sailing experience on deck and no higher that is perfectly fine.  However, this is a great opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and reach new heights!

Question 9

What sort of ship duties will I be doing?

Accepted Answer

There's lot's to do aboard our ships, you'll never be bored on board! Basic tasks include dishes, cleaning the ship and setting the sails. For trainees who wish to expand their knowledge and gain experience with more complex tasks, step up and don't be shy! Whether it's helming the ship, working in the engine room, cooking in the galley or competing ship's logs, trainees can do it all.

Question 10

Will there be free time?

Accepted Answer

Of course! Trainees will have free time when they are off watch and can do as they wish whether it's work on their log book levels, read a book, nap or chat with a friend.

Question 11

How much money should I bring with me?

Accepted Answer

How much money you should bring will depend on the duration of your trip. Trainees are encouraged to free roam and explore upon arrival at ports of call, so if you'd like to pick up a souvenir or an ice cream cone, make sure you have some cash handy and budget accordingly.

Question 12

How often do we go swimming?

Accepted Answer

We try to get some swimming in every day – when possible!

Question 13

Do I need to know how to swim?

Accepted Answer

No. There will be a swim test at the beginning of the voyage, and if trainees do not pass it they will be required to wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) during swim call.

Question 14

Can I swear on board?

Accepted Answer

No. Tall Ships Adventure has zero tolerance for the use of colourful language on our ships.

Question 15

Does it get really wavy and stormy?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. If it becomes rocky the captain may choose to stay in port for the day. The ships are equipped with DVDs, a projector, fun games, books and some tasty hot chocolate!

Question 16

Will I get seasick?

Accepted Answer

We keep motion sickness medicine in our First Aid kit for just such a situation.  If trainees feel too unwell to be on watch, they are allowed to stay in their bunk and rest.

Question 17

Does it get cold at night while on watch?

Accepted Answer

Yes. And sometimes on night watch it can get very cold. Make sure to pack some warm clothes such as a wool sweater and a windbreaker.

Question 18

What if I injure myself whilst on board?

Accepted Answer

We foster a culture of safety but sometimes accidents happen.  Our crew are certified with First Aid and are equipped with a well stocked First Aid kit. If the injury is more severe, the coast guard is only a call away.  If a hospital visit is needed, trainees would  be accompanied with a crew member and your parents will be contacted.

Question 19

I'm older than 18, is there still a way for me to participate?"

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have several Adult Voyages in the Fall most years.

Question 20

I'm not Canadian, can I still participate?"

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tall Ships Adventure has had trainees from all around the world!  All are welcome!  This year foreign travel has some specific pandemic requirments.  Please check with goverment of Canada website for current information.

Question 21

Can my voyage go towards my Duke of Edinburgh Award?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tall Ships Adventures and voyages count towards the Adventurous Journey, Community Service and Skill Building portion of the award. You will need to bring the appropriate form for the captain to sign confirming that you've completed it. Click here (javascript:void(0))to learn more.

Question 22

Will it be fun?

Accepted Answer

YES!!

Frequently Asked Questions

TRAINEE QUESTIONS

Parent Questions

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BYTOWN BRIGANTINE INC.

2700 Queensview Drive

Ottawa, ON K2B 8H6

Charity Registration #118822253 RR 0001

HST #188 22253