CSTS Volunteer Information
The Command Seamanship Training Squadron is a professional development program for midshipmen at the US Naval Academy. CSTS gives midshipmen the opportunity to gain experience in small unit leadership, seamanship and navigation through offshore sailing. CSTS runs throughout the summer, with separate 4-week training blocks on our fleet of Navy 44’ sloops. Up to ten Navy 44s sail each block, split into two squadrons. Each squadron sails to a different port on the Eastern seaboard for a weekend of community outreach and liberty. There are eight midshipmen on each boat and two instructors.
CSTS trains volunteers to be instructors on the Navy 44s during the academic year, starting in September and wrapping up in May. We have on-water training in the fall and spring and classroom training in the winter. There are a series of qualifications that must be earned throughout the year, based on accruing hours on the Navy 44 platform to learn systems, navigation and seamanship skills and earn instructor-trainer recommendations. Other requirements include passing a series of online tests and practical navigation exam, taking a Safety at Sea Seminar and a First Aid/CPR course. First year volunteers can earn a Coastal Skipper qualification. This enables you to sail as an Executive Officer (XO) with a qualified D-OS (Offshore Skipper).
If you are interested in finding out more, your first step is to fill out the Volunteer Registration Form. This is not an obligation but will put you on our mailing list. If you become an active volunteer, you will receive emails pertinent to training. We’ll send out an invitation to our volunteer brief where you can meet the staff and learn more about the program. If you are unable to attend, please reach out and we’ll send you the brief. The other forms below will be covered during the volunteer information brief.
Volunteer Registration Form
VOLUNTEER DOCUMENTS
CSTS REFERENCES:
