Join our sail training adventure!
Learn traditional seamanship and gain real life skills!
Onboard NEPTUN we are a community, and we depend on each other. We need to share skills and teach in order to be able to maintain the knowledge it takes to sail, operate and maintain the vessel at all times.
Sail Training Aboard Brigantine Neptun:
Brigantine Neptun offers a unique and immersive sail training experience designed to foster traditional seamanship and community spirit. This historic vessel, originally built in 1959, serves as a platform for individuals seeking to learn the intricacies of sailing a tall ship while exploring the world’s oceans. Operated by the nonprofit Neptun Association, the ship embodies maritime heritage and cooperation, with mutual respect and knowledge-sharing at its core.
The Neptun Sail Training Program
The sail training program aboard Neptun is open to individuals of all experience levels, providing an inclusive opportunity for novices and seasoned sailors alike to deepen their maritime knowledge. As part of the training, participants engage in hands-on seamanship, learning everything from traditional rigging to navigation and helmsmanship. The program also offers specific certifications, such as the Yachtmaster Certificate, which equips trainees with skills in boat handling and navigation required for professional sailing.
One unique feature of the Neptun sail training experience is the focus on traditional seamanship. Trainees gain practical skills in handling square sails and understanding the operational demands of a large, manually-operated vessel
like Neptun, which boasts a sail area of 250 m².
This approach ensures that participants not only become proficient in modern sailing techniques but also learn the timeless practices that have shaped maritime history for centuries.
A School at Sea
Beyond seamanship, Neptun functions as a “school at sea,” providing various educational opportunities. Trainees can pursue certifications in areas such as engineering for marine diesel engines and diving, with expert instructors guiding them through the technical aspects of maritime operations.
This blend of theoretical learning and practical application creates a well-rounded training experience that prepares participants for both professional and recreational maritime careers.
Sustainability and Community
The Neptun Association emphasizes sustainability and community as pillars of its mission. Life aboard Neptun is characterized by a collaborative atmosphere where crew members share responsibilities, such as maintaining the ship, cooking, and navigating. The association fosters a “sharing economy” aboard the ship, where participants contribute equally to expenses like fuel, food, and repairs. This communal lifestyle enhances the sense of teamwork and camaraderie, integral to the sail training experience.
In addition, Neptun’s voyages are designed to minimize environmental impact while raising awareness of marine conservation. The association actively promotes sustainable sailing practices, making Neptun not just a training vessel but also a model for eco-conscious maritime operations.
Adventure and Exploration
Neptun’s training voyages offer more than just skill-building—they are an opportunity to explore the world from a unique vantage point. The ship’s extensive sailing schedule covers destinations across the globe, from the Caribbean to the Pacific, offering trainees the chance to experience diverse cultures and marine environments. These expeditions combine rigorous training with the thrill of adventure, making the experience aboard Neptun unforgettable.
Join the Crew
Joining Neptun’s crew is as simple as signing up through the association’s website, with no prior sailing experience required. The program encourages anyone with a passion for the sea to participate, regardless of background. Whether you’re looking to start a career in maritime industries or simply seeking an adventurous break from the routine, Neptun’s sail training program offers a rewarding and enriching experience
Sail training aboard Brigantine Neptun offers a perfect blend of education, adventure, and community, providing participants with the skills, experience, and memories to last a lifetime.
Sailling on neptun is an amazing adventure, teaching you new skills among a very interesting and diverse community. This has opened a lot of doors in my career as well as sparked a lot of new interests!
Eileen
24 yrs. France
