Boating and Sailing Jobs at Camp

Guide campers on the water and teach them the fundamentals of boating, sailing and water safety.

Why should I be a boating & sailing specialist at camp?

There’s no better place to be a boating and sailing instructor than at camp in Canada, a country known for its breathtaking lakes and scenery. If you’re a keen boating enthusiast who would love to ride the waves on a sailboat or powerboat in the backdrop of the Canadian wilderness, then a role as a boating and sailing instructor at a camp in Canada is perfect for you. You can pass on your knowledge to your campers, as well as organising various water-based activities such as sailing, powerboating and more.

What does a boating specialist do at summer camp?

You will be instructing various different water related activities, helping campers build their confidence in the water. This will include sailing and other water sports such as windsurfing. You will also be responsible for the maintenance of equipment as well as the boathouse and the docking area. Boating specialists and lifeguards will work closely together to ensure the safety of the campers in the water and in some smaller camps, boating instructors may also have a role as a lifeguard.

FAQs

What if I don't have any qualifications?

Short answer - it might not be a problem. For most activities, you won't need any particular qualifications to teach your activity at camp. For others, we may be able to provide training before camp starts - you'll still need a decent amount of experience in your activity, but we'll make sure you're ready before the campers start arriving. The best thing to do is apply for the role you want, and if it doesn't work out, you may be able to lock down a similar role. Whatever you end up doing, you'll still be fully trained for camp!

Why should I be an activity specialist instead of a general counsellor?

Most importantly, being an activity specialist gives you the opportunity to develop your skills in an area that you are passionate about, getting experience that’s not available anywhere else. Whilst you’ll be teaching your activity 5 or 6 periods a day, you’ll generally have more time off, with many specialists staying overnight with other specialists rather than campers. You’ll also get to know the whole camp, spending your days seeing different groups of campers into the activity and seeing them grow both in the skill and as people.

How many children should I expect to teach?

Campers come down to sessions in divisions (age groups). These can vary in skill level, but usually are made up of 10-30 campers. You’ll then be paired with an individual camper or a group, and don’t worry - you’ll be supported by your fellow specialists and counsellors.

Experience a life-changing Canadian summer.
A Canadian lake with forestry and mountains in the background
A Canadian lake with forestry and mountains in the background