Mystic Seaport Museum is seeking a qualified Summer and Fall Mate to join the schooner BRILLIANT for the 2026 sailing season.

We are looking for someone who can join the vessel in June and stay at least through August, with a strong preference for candidates available through the end of the sailing season in October. We are open to short-term contracts for the right candidate.

Described by WoodenBoat as one of the “100 most beautiful classic boats in existence” and “one of the best maintained and sailed classic yachts in the country — if not the world,” BRILLIANT is a 1932 classic sailing yacht and home to one of the longest-running youth sail training programs in the United States.

Program & Itinerary

BRILLIANT will sail throughout New England in 2026, running:

• Two- to five-day sailing programs for adults
• Five- and ten-day sail training voyages for teenagers throughout the summer
• Classic yacht racing events, including Eggemoggin Reach Regatta and Opera House Cup
• Occasional daysails representing the Museum

Dual registered as both a Sailing School Vessel and Small Passenger Vessel, BRILLIANT typically sails with a professional crew of three: Captain, Mate, and Cook/Deckhand, along with up to nine program participants.

Position Overview

The Mate assists the Captain in all aspects of vessel operation, including:

• Teaching and mentoring teenage and adult crew
• Sail handling and vessel maneuvering
• Watchstanding and navigation
• Vessel safety and seamanship instruction
• Maintenance and upkeep of the vessel

In the absence of the Captain, the Mate is responsible for all aspects of vessel operation and safety.

The Mate also participates in the ongoing care of the vessel during the sailing season, helping to maintain BRILLIANT to the exceptionally high standards for which she is known.

Work Environment This role requires extended time outdoors in all weather conditions and the ability to move safely through a working vessel environment including decks, rigging, floats, and bilges. The Mate represents both BRILLIANT and Mystic Seaport Museum in a highly visible role and must demonstrate professionalism when interacting with students, staff, volunteers, visitors, and supporters of the Museum. Compensation and Details

• $4,000 per month
• Room and board provided aboard the vessel
• Start date: June 15th, 2026; End Date: August 28th, 2026
• Opportunity for position to extend into the fall season.

How to Apply Please apply online through Mystic Seaport Museum and upload:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Qualifications & Experience

Required:

• USCG 50 GRT Mate or Master Near Coastal, with Auxiliary Sail
• Experience sailing traditionally rigged vessels
• Experience with wooden vessel maintenance
• Strong attention to detail and safety
• First Aid certification (Red Cross preferred)
• Ability to work closely with teenagers and adult participants

Preferred:

• Sail training experience
• Radar operation experience
• Advanced medical training (WFR or WEMT)
• Experience working with volunteers

Candidates must be comfortable working weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed and living aboard for extended periods during the sailing season.