How old do I have to be to sail with Brigs?
For our main courses, participants must be 13 to 18 years old. We also offer select all adult courses for people 18+. Please reference https://www.brigs.ca/adult_sails for more details!
Can youth groups sail during the summer?
Of course! During our summer program, the whole group must register for one of the available courses. In the offseason, June and September, TS Playfair is available for group sails and private charters. Contact us at [email protected] for more information!
Will I be on the ship for the entirety of the course ?
Yes and no! Trainees will live onboard Playfair for the duration of the voyage; however, depending on the voyage, trainees might get shore leave in port or at anchor at an island! We offer a boatload of fun activities such as campfires and scavenger hunts, depending on the voyage!
Does the ship sail through the night?
Yes! Brigs uses a traditional 3 watch system to ensure that the ship is functional 24 hours a day while every crew member gets 8 hours of sleep a night.
Do I need to know how to sail?
No prior sailing knowledge is necessary! Our skilled crew will teach you all you need to know about sailing TS Playfair.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, all trainees must be able to swim. Parents and guardians are required to verify this information upon registration.
What are the sleeping arrangements like aboard STV Pathfinder and TS Playfair?
TS Playfair has 12 bunks, so with a smaller trainee crew, everybody gets their own personal bunk. On bigger voyages, watches swap out bunks during the night, this process is called "Hot Bunking".
Can Brigs accommodate dietary restrictions?
We can accommodate almost all dietary restrictions! Please write what your restrictions are when you are filling out the booking form and we will make sure our cook has all they need to serve you! If you have any questions please don't hesitate to write us at [email protected]!
Will I have to climb onto the mast and yards?
What kind of safety equipment does the ship carry?
Our vessel, the TS Playfair upholds the highest level of safety regulated by Transport Canada. The following is some of the safety equipment onboard:
Navigation Equipment:
GPS, Radar, AIS Class C, Depth sounder, High intensity running lights, up-to-date nautical publications and charts, Compass, and Sextant.
Communication Equipment:
2 25W VHF radios, 5W handheld VHF radio, Cellular telephone, Signal ensigns.
Safety Equipment:
3 B-pack life rafts, 30 safety harnesses, 40 keyhole life jackets, 20 Inflatable PFDs, Fire fighting equipment (firehoses, extinguishers, fire suppression system), First aid kits and equipment, Flares dye and smoke signals, Kisby rings and down buoy.
How do I get to and from the ship?
On the day of sail, trainees have two options. 1) Meet at the hamilton office at 10 am for a shuttle to the ship, or 2) arrive at the departure port no later than 1 pm on the day of sail.
This applies to all voyages.
Who is responsible for the ship and crew?
Can I get a refund?
Yes! Please consult our refund policy by clicking here.