Sailing Instructor

Mystic Seaport Museum•Stonington, CT

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Mystic Seaport Museum is seeking sailing instructors for our Community Sailing summer camps and adult evening classes at the Museum’s Sailing Center from June 1-August 14, 2026, Monday-Friday. This position is responsible for daytime sailing instruction for campers ages 6-15 on Dyer Dhow, c420s, and Pram/Opti sailboats, and for the running of our evening classes for adults. Sailing instructors are also responsible for mentoring Counselors-in-Training (Junior Instructors) on the water and for implementing rainy day activities. The position requires great leadership skills and the ability to work well with children, teens and adults. For more information: https://mysticseaport.org/learn/sailing/community-sailing/

Requirements

At least 16 years of age
Strong organizational skills
Current American Red Cross First Aid, and CPR certification (training provided)
US Sailing Level 1 instructor or sailing counselor certification (or willingness to obtain)
Experience working with children and youth in formal or informal settings
Positive, enthusiastic and flexible attitude
Integrity, patience, adaptability, a sense of humor, enthusiasm, and a commitment to serve youth
Strong problem-solving skills and an ability to adapt to changing program needs depending on weather, number of students, number of boats, etc.
Excellent customer service and communication skills
Responsible and mature

Nice To Haves

Previous sail instruction experience
Experience driving powerboats in an instructional setting (training provided)
Experience with summer camps
Experience mentoring teens/peers
Lifeguarding Certification
US Sailing Level 2 or 3 instructor certifications
Small dinghy sailing/racing experience

Responsibilities

Lead by example as a role model who sets the tone for positive youth development
Prepare lessons for campers
Assist with daily check-in/out of campers
Assists in day-to-day activities
Maintain close communication with the waterfront director to ensure smooth program operations
Participate with activities and help facilitate transition times and supervise campers
Help prepare and clean powerboats and sailboats each week, and assist with maintenance as needed
Assist with daily lesson plans and course setting based on campers’ abilities and ages
Assist with evening sailing programs
Instruct campers in sailing, rowing, seamanship, and maritime skills
Adhere to all camp safety guidelines
Mentor CITs and work with the waterfront director to plan team building opportunities for them