School of Navigation & Seamanship (SONS)
Equipping mariners to serve the nations
7 February to 30 April 2027
We are very excited to be running this course for the first time as a partnership between YWAM Nelson in New Zealand and Yachts for Life in Fiji. The school will be led by highly experienced and capable leaders who bring extensive sailing expertise, along with a genuine passion to pass on sailing skills to those who feel called to take to the seas on sailing vessels.
The School of Navigation and Seamanship is for anyone who feels called to serve on the water. Whether you’re completely new to maritime life or already have some experience, this course blends practical seamanship training with discipleship, preparing you to serve with confidence on YWAM vessels throughout the Pacific.
Students grow in technical skills, biblical character, and servant‑hearted leadership. Our goal is to raise up men and women who can safely and effectively support YWAM Ships as they bring hope and help to port cities and isolated island communities.
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SONS takes you from foundational maritime knowledge to a level of competence suitable for beginning involvement in the international maritime industry. Throughout the course, you’ll learn how biblical principles shape leadership, decision‑making, and life at sea.
The training is delivered for three months in New Zealand, combining classroom learning, hands‑on seamanship and sailing.
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Training in Nelson comprises of twelve weeks of classroom instruction and practical seamanship training. This phase introduces you to the essential skills required on board, including navigation, vessel operations, safety, and teamwork.
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An eight to twelve-week outreach phase is an optional next step after completion of a training phase. This will take you into the islands of the upper Lau Group, where you’ll put your training into action. You’ll be joining an experienced crew on outreach voyages, serving remote communities through practical help, relationship‑building, and the ministry of presence. This is where seamanship and missions come together in a powerful way.
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Course Completion will include a debrief and graduation will be held either in Fiji or at YWAM Nelson.
Course Costs
Training Phase - $5,950 NZD*
Fiji Outreach Phase - $3,000 FJD* (~ $2,287 NZD)
*Travel, personal and other incidental costs are not included.
“Why SONS?
YWAM Ships operates in some of the most isolated regions of the Pacific. Skilled and spiritually grounded crew are essential for safe and effective ministry. SONS exists to meet this need by equipping individuals who can serve with competence, humility, and a heart for the nations.
Whether you feel called to long‑term maritime missions or simply want to grow in practical skills and discipleship, this course provides a strong foundation.”