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Cool Seasonal Jobs
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Accepting applications for
Mate, Deckhand, and Messmate positions.
Embark on an Adventure: Join Our Crew!
Are you ready for a unique opportunity to work on the beautiful
waters of the Maine coast? At Schooner Mary Day, we’re seeking
enthusiastic individuals to join our crew for the upcoming sailing season.
If you’re passionate about the sea, enjoy working as part of a team, and
love providing exceptional service to guests, we want to hear from you!
As a crew member, you will play a vital role in delivering unforgettable
experiences aboard our legendary Maine schooner. While sailing experience is preferred, a positive attitude and a willingness to learn are just as valuable. Your dedication will help us maintain the exceptional standards that our guests have come to expect.
Please note that, as a US -flagged passenger vessel, we can only accept applications from U.S. citizens. If you’re ready to embrace the challenges and joys of life at sea, we encourage you to explore our available positions and apply today. Your adventure awaits!
One of the most exciting seasonal job opportunities you can find is aboard the Maine windjammer Mary Day. The coast of Maine boasts the largest fleet of commercial sailing tall ships in the United States. This stunning area is rich in wildlife and offers tranquil anchorages in every bay.
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A gaff topsail schooner, the Mary Day is a true sailing vessel, relying solely on wind power without an inboard engine as a backup. Navigating tight spaces requires sharp skills and meticulous attention to detail, which is why many aspiring American sailing masters get their start on windjammers like this. We offer entry-level positions and career-building roles for deckhands, mates, cooks, and assistant cooks. Serving on a commercial sailing tall ship along the beautiful Maine coast will help you develop valuable skills while making unforgettable memories and friendships.
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Mary Day operates with a crew of seven, which means there are only a limited number of positions available each season. If you're passionate about engaging with the public, enjoy being part of a team, seek adventure, and are willing to work hard, this could be your gateway into the tall ship experience. These are seasonal live-aboard positions. Please note that all employees in safety-sensitive roles must pass a pre-employment drug screening and will participate in a random testing program during the season. Certain positions also require first aid and CPR certifications.
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2025 Crew Positions
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FIRST MATE
Working closely with the captain, the first mate plays a crucial role in guiding the crew throughout the sailing season. This position involves setting an example and overseeing the daily tasks related to the maintenance and operation of the schooner. Extensive sailing experience is required, along with a solid understanding of traditionally rigged vessels and proficient small-boat handling skills. Strong social skills and effective communication are essential, as the first mate will collaborate with a diverse range of individuals. While USCG certifications are preferred, they are not mandatory. For a complete job description, please contact us.
DECKHANDS
Deckhands are the backbone of the sailing crew, working long days to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the schooner. As a deckhand, you will work closely with the mate to deploy, tend, and secure the sails. Sailing experience is essential, along with a solid understanding of basic knots and proficiency in small boat handling. Deckhands must also be physically fit and comfortable with heights, as working aloft is a regular part of the job. Daily responsibilities include assisting with the maintenance of the rigging and keeping the vessel clean and well-maintained at all times. We value strong work ethic and a commitment to doing a job to the highest standard. If you are a team player who takes pride in your work and is eager to contribute to a unique and rewarding sailing experience, please contact us for a complete job description.
ASSISTANT COOK/MESSMATE
The assistant cook, also known as the messmate, plays a vital role in supporting the cook with meal preparation. In addition, the messmate is responsible for cleaning the main cabin dining area and washing dishes after each meal. No prior experience is necessary; what we value most are a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, excellent interpersonal skills, and a commitment to the details that enhance the schooner dining experience, making it enjoyable for our guests. Applicants who are eager to learn about sailing and are willing to assist on deck are especially welcomed, as many former messmates have successfully transitioned to deck crew positions. For a complete job description, please reach out to us.
HEAD COOK/CHEF
The cook holds the most crucial role on the crew, responsible for planning menus, provisioning, and crafting delicious “down east” dishes for up to 36 guests and crew members. All food is prepared by hand, using an antique wood-burning cookstove for a truly authentic experience. The below-deck galley is spacious and well-ventilated, making it a comfortable environment to work in. An assistant cook/messmate will be available to help with food preparation and to work under the guidance of the cook. Given the social nature of the windjammer experience, the ideal cook should be personable, able to engage with guests and display a genuine enthusiasm for sharing the art of windjammer cooking. While it’s not mandatory, there are plenty of opportunities for the cook to participate on deck and assist with small boat handling. Cooking aboard the Mary Day is a unique seasonal job that offers the chance to work in the stunning scenery of the Maine coast. For a complete job description, please reach out to us.
Penobscot Windjammer Company (Schooner Mary Day) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by state and federal laws.