Most Sea Scouting units, called ships, have sailboats or power vessels for learning to sail and cruise. During the boating seasons, every member has a change to try his hand at the tiller, to trim the sails, and all members are taught safe and proper methods of handling boats. Sea Scouts also learn the meaning of buoys and lights, how to take advantage of wind and tide, and how to drop anchor or approach a dock. Day, weekend, and long cruises are held for all ship members.

Every boat owner takes pride in the condition of his boat. Each spring he sands, scrapes, caulks, and paints until it is trim and shipshape. Sea Scout vessels are no exception. A significant part of our Sea Scouting program is teaching and learning methods of boat maintenance. Most ships center at least a portion of their program around maintaining their ship's floating equipment.

Most ships hold regular, weekly meetings either at their chartered institution or aboard their vessel. Many are formal meetings conducted in either full dress of work uniforms with ceremony. Swimming, lifesaving, first aid, Coast Guard Auxiliary Sailing and Seamanship, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation courses are taught with the ship by our own officers. The state safe boating course is also offered by many ships. These courses are open to the public. Occasionally movies are shown, contests between crews are held, or intership visits are arranged.

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