Junior Adventure Mariner Camp (JAM Camp)
CAMP DETAILS
DESCRIPTION
Junior Adventure Mariner Camp gives kids ages 9–17 a real day (or overnight!) aboard the tall ship Spirit of South Carolina. Campers steer the helm, tie sailor’s knots, hoist sails, and learn about celestial navigation (overnight only) all while becoming part of the crew for a day.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A day aboard Spirit of South Carolina follows the rhythm of a real working ship, guided every step of the way by our crew.
- Check-In: Campers arrive dockside and meet their crew leaders. Parents complete a quick sign-in, and campers receive their gear for the day.
- Muster: The crew gathers on deck for roll call, safety briefing, and an introduction to shipboard rules and etiquette — just like a real sailor’s first morning aboard.
- Ship Tour: A hands-on walkthrough of the vessel, from bow to stern, covering rigging, navigation stations, and life below deck.
- Underway Experience: The heart of the day. Campers take turns at the helm, help hoist sails, learn basic knot-tying, and assist the crew with real shipboard tasks while the vessel gets underway.
- Overnight Track Only — Celestial Navigation: As the sun sets, overnight campers learn to read the stars the way sailors have for centuries, using them to chart a course.
- Awards Ceremony: The day wraps up with a closing ceremony where campers are recognized for what they’ve learned and presented with a keepsake to commemorate their voyage.
WHO IT'S FOR
- Ages & Eligibility: 10–18 years old
- Group Size: Small crews to ensure every camper gets real time at the helm
- Experience Level: Beginner-friendly; all skills are taught aboard
- Swimming: Basic swimming ability recommended (please note any concerns at check-in)
- Track Options: Choose the single-day program or the overnight program for the full live-aboard experience, including celestial navigation
WHAT TO BRING
For All Campers:
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
- Closed-toe shoes with non-marking soles
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Light rain jacket, in case of weather
Additional Items for the Overnight Track:
- Sleeping bag or bedroll
- Pillow
- Change of clothes and extra layer for cooler night air
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Small daypack to keep gear organized
SAFETY
Your camper’s safety is our top priority, on deck and on the water.
- PFDs on Deck: All campers wear a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on deck and underway.
- Certified Instructors: Every crew leader is a certified sailing instructor trained in on-water safety and youth supervision.
- Safety Briefing: Before departure, every camper receives a hands-on safety briefing covering shipboard rules, PFD use, and how to move safely around the vessel.
- Emergency Procedures: Campers are walked through man-overboard drills, muster points, and emergency signals, so everyone knows exactly what to do in the unlikely event of an emergency.
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