Methods

Opportunity for fun on the Water:
What's one thing that makes Sea Scouting unique? It's getting out on the water! Sea Scout units can use a variety of boats; from outboard motorboats to large sailing yachts. But no matter how your ship gets to sea, you'll discover a thrill that you just can't get anywhere else. You belong to a world that is distinct from anything on shore; with it's own language and practice.

The sea is also no place for the unwary, and the Scout Motto, "Be Prepared," is seriously practiced here. The challenge is being able to take your vessel from point A to point B, while being ready for whatever you may encounter along the way. This is what makes Sea Scouting great.

Opportunity for Cruising:
Here is the chance to get away from it all. Cruising takes you beyond any experience you'll get on a day's outing. Living on the boat involves sharing in the duties of helmsman, navigator, lookout, cook, and sail handler or engineer. You live on a sea-roving summer camp where each day offers a new destination in the morning, and the changing scenery of a new harbor in the evening.

Opportunity for Fellowship:
Sea Scouting gives you the opportunity to share these experiences with others who share your interests. Even if you know nothing about boats now; don't worry you will. You'll have the chance to grow and share your experiences with others in your ship. Your shipmates can meet other Sea Scouts at council, regional, and national events. Sea Scout get-togethers, called rendezvous, games, and rallies provide a change to swap stories and compare notes.

Opportunity for Leadership:
Sea Scout programs are run by the youth members. Elected leaders plan and conduct the program. Being part of a boat's crew teaches teamwork. As you gain experiences you will be given the opportunity to contribute to the leadership of your unit. At the quarterdeck meetings, the ship's petty officers work together to plan and evaluate the ship's program. The leadership skills you learn here will last your lifetime.

Opportunity for Service:
Sea Scouting is service to others. Sea Scouts have been of service to hundreds of communities across the nation. Service can be expressed in individual good turns to others or in organized projects involving your crew or the whole ship. In rescues at sea, or facing emergencies on shore, Sea Scouts have saved lives and property. Service puts your citizenship into action.

Opportunity for Advancement:
In Sea Scouting, you are acknowledged for the things you learn and do. The Sea Scout advancement program rewards the work you put into it. Each level of advancement marks your growth as a seaman and a leader. The pinnacle of the advancement system is the Quartermaster Award, the highest award a Sea Scout can earn.

Information taken directly from the Sea Scout Manual