By James Windell
Ever wonder what it would be like to be part of the crew on a tall ship?
Could you see yourself sailing out on Lake Michigan every day this summer? Using terms like braces, sheets, and halyards and hoisting sails and getting hands-on sailing experience?
If so, the Michigan Maritime Museum has a unique opportunity for you.
You could join the volunteer crew of Friends Good Will for the 2026 sailing season. The Museum is offering volunteers a chance to step back in time and crew a traditional tall ship, the Friends Good Will, a replica of an 1810 merchant vessel that once navigated the Great Lakes.
Volunteer sailors will take part in learning seamanship skills, sail handling, setting sails, and receive a solid introduction to sailing a tall ship – all while sharing the rich maritime heritage of the region with museum guests, students, and fellow sailors.
If you are 18 or older and have the time available this summer, you will be able to train through the Museum’s Basic Seamanship Training (BST) program, where you will gain the skills needed to crew the ship.
Training dates are set for April 18, April 19, May 16, May 17, with both classroom and on-water instruction. New crew members will continue to learn throughout the summer, sailing alongside seasoned volunteers and staff.
“The more you sail, the more you learn!” says Captain Bob Harnish, Fleet Captain of the Museum’s Fleet. “This is an incredible opportunity to experience sailing a traditionally rigged ship while keeping Michigan’s maritime history alive.”
With up to four sailing excursions daily, seven days a week, volunteers will have plenty of opportunity to put their new skills to the test.
To sign up or get more information, email captain@mimaritime.org or call 269-637-8078 ext. 105.
