Learn. Sail. Discover.

Class Afloat offers rigorous and internationally acclaimed academic programmes for Grade 11, 12, University and Gap year students while they sail the world’s oceans aboard a majestic tall ship. Class Afloat has a long legacy of commitment to academic excellence, community service, leadership and personal development since first setting sail over 30 years ago.

In 1984, under the banner of International Youth Year, the United Nations invited schools and agencies worldwide to interpret the themes of "participation, development, and peace". In response to that call and with a commitment to those themes, Class Afloat- West Island College International was formed. Since 1984, over 1700 Class Afloat students have sailed more than 700,000 nautical miles to over 250 ports of call worldwide. 

Class Afloat alumni have gained admission to the world’s leading post-secondary institutions. Now between the ages of 17 and 47, they are engaged citizens whose sense of the possible has been enhanced and redefined by their Class Afloat experience. This exceptional programme provides young people with the opportunity to develop as individuals, excel as global citizens and forge lifelong friendships as they explore the world. It is unparalleled and the experience of a lifetime. 

 

Academics

  • Class Afloat provides a comprehensive and rigorous, accredited school curriculum. Students attend classes in our shipboard classroom.
  • Small classes (average class size: 12) ensure personalized attention to meet each student’s unique learning needs.
  • Our faculty are passionate about learning. They challenge students to excel academically and to make the most of their once in a lifetime experience.  
  • Students enrol for one semester (4 months) or full academic year (8.5 months)
  • ESL and English immersion classes offered
  • High School Curriculum for grades 11 & 12, fully accredited by the Ministry of Education, Nova Scotia, Canada. 
  • Students enrolled in a Grade 12 programme are prepared for a Nova Scotia Ministry of Education High School Diploma. 
  • Class Afloat is a Quebec Ministry of Education approved partner of Cégep Marie-Victorin.
  • University students earn credits through Acadia University in Nova Scotia, Canada.

 

Faculty & Professional Crew Positions

Class Afloat accepts applications year round from qualified secondary teachers and crew. We generally conclude our hiring in March of each year for the following school year . If your resume and qualifications are aligned with assignment vacancies, you will be contacted for an interview.

Due to the high volume of applications received we are not able to interview all candidates. If you have the proper senior high school teaching qualifications and are looking to teach in an exciting, dynamic environment, please contact Megan MacLeod, Head of School.

We also welcome applications from certified professional crew, cooks and medical officers. All professional personnel must hold, at a minimum, STCW-95 certification. To apply, please send a cover letter and résumé.