Frequently Asked Questions
Home / FAQS
General
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all sessions are filled. We recommend applying early to increase your chances of securing your preferred program and session. Our most popular sessions often fill up as early as the program begins.
Most of the students come on their own, so you’re not the only one. It’s normal to arrive not knowing anyone, but don’t worry – we’ve got fun icebreaker games and activities to help you meet everyone on your boat super fast. The instructors will mix up the groups for different activities, so you’ll get to know new people quickly. By the end of the trip, you’ll head back with lifelong Christian friends with whom you can share God’s love and adventures!
We get it—being away from home can be challenging at times. That’s why we’ve got pastors who are like grandparents for the trip and our whole team, who are there to ensure you’re doing great. Plus, you’ll have your awesome new friends to help you along the way.
While we understand a phone is essential, all cell phones will be collected upon arrival since charging options are limited, and we cannot take responsibility for damage that may occur. We will secure the cell phone during a trip in the safe onboard and return it to the students as they leave for the airport. This allows you to unplug from the world and fully connect with the experience, crew, and beauty around you. If you ever need to contact home, we have a shared phone available for students to use, and your family can reach out through that as well. It’s all about being present and making the most of this incredible adventure!
There won’t be wifi or internet access during the trip, but we have a team cell phone with limited internet access. Each evening, we’ll do our best to share updates about our adventure with families through WhatsApp or email. It’s a great way to stay connected while focusing on being fully present in the experience!
On the trip, we’ll be helping local communities like schools and churches. You don’t have to bring anything, but packing something to share is an excellent idea. Flat footballs with pumps, toys, sanitary products, old clothes, books, Bibles, school supplies, medical supplies, and toiletries are fabulous donations.
You can ask friends and family for items or buy some from charity shops. It’s not required, but it’s a great way to show kindness and spread Kingdom generosity!
You’ll get to visit a local church during the trip! You’ll need to dress smartly to show respect: girls should bring a dress below the knee and cover the shoulders, and boys should wear a shirt with smart trousers (no shorts). You’ll also need one pair of smart shoes. The church services are long, with lively singing, joyful worship, and powerful sermons. It’s much more energetic and fun than you might be used to at home—get ready for a fantastic experience!
After dinner, we’ll have a time of prayer and devotions to relax after a busy day. A designated worship leader will guide us, and you can submit your faviourite worship songs before the trip.
If you’d like to sing or play a worship song while we’re onboard, you’re welcome to! One of our pastors will lead our evening devotions, which will focus on “navigating the storms of life.” It’s a great way to connect with God and each other.
There’s little space for everyone to bring instruments, but we have a shared guitar for anyone who wants to lead worship in the evening.
Finance
Your final balance is due by February 1st.
Yes, you can spread your payments over a monthly period, however this needs to be paid in full by February 1st. Please email [email protected] if you wish to request a specific plan.
Yes, you will need medical coverage. We require students to have at least $100,000 in emergency evacuation coverage and some level of international medical coverage. We also highly recommend purchasing a policy that includes tuition protection in case you need to cancel your trip for any unforeseen reason.
The program fee does not include airfare. We cannot standardize flight prices because students join us from various locations across the U.S. and internationally.
The program cost covers instruction, food, accommodations, excursions, and activities when students arrive at their program location. It does not include airfare, personal spending money (we recommend $150-$200), or unexpected expenses such as medical or special travel arrangements. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a detailed list of additional costs that may apply to your program.
Students are responsible for arranging their flights and typically travel independently, although they often connect during their journey. We collect travel itineraries for all participants. Kingdom Sail instructors will be waiting in the arrivals hall of the destination airport, easily recognizable in their special shirts and holding Kingdom Sail signs. To make it even easier for students to spot each other, we send out Kingdom Sail shirts to wear while traveling.
We know that mission trips can be expensive, but there are many fun ways to raise money! You could do a sponsored run or bike ride, host a bake sale, set up a lemonade stand, or plan a church event. Get creative—the possibilities are endless! You can even ask your church to help spread the word and see if anyone wants to donate.
You can use the money for your trip or to support a local community on the islands. Happy fundraising!
Sailing
If you’re looking for a break from doing watersport activities, there’s plenty of other fun stuff to do. Chill with your new friends over a smoothie, read a book, play a game or relax on an inflatable whilst soaking up the Caribbean sun.
We offer three levels of certifications which every student can work towards.
Kingdom Sail Crew Certification
Prerequisites: None.
The Crew Level is the starting point in Kingdom Sail’s certification program, designed to give students a strong foundation in sailing a larger vessel. This certification is essential for all participants, covering the basics of sailing and boat safety. You’ll complete hands-on skill check-offs and pass a multiple-choice exam to earn your Crew Level certification. Our captains will assess your progress and assign an ability score.
Kingdom Sail Bosun Certification
Prerequisites: Kingdom Sail Crew Certification.
The Bosun Level is the second stage in Kingdom Sail’s certification program, building on the skills mastered at the Crew Level. This certification focuses on more advanced sailing techniques, including sail reefing, timed tacking and jibing, island crossings, advanced navigation, anchoring, docking, de-docking, racing strategies, and enhanced safety protocols. Leadership skills, while underway, are a vital component of this level, preparing participants for greater responsibility on board. Earning the Bosun Level certification unlocks new opportunities within the sailing program.
Kingdom Sail Mate Certification
Prerequisite: Kingdom Sail Bosun Certification and at least one year with Kingdom Sail.
The Mate Level is Kingdom Sail’s highest certification. It is reserved for returning participants with exceptional dedication, skill, and a passion for sailing. This advanced certification is designed for experienced and committed sailors ready to take leadership roles.
To achieve Mate Level certification, participants work closely with a captain who guides them through a tailored development plan. This program covers advanced responsibilities, including assigning crew roles, managing all phases of seamanship and safety drills, operating and maintaining engines, dinghies, and equipment, keeping an accurate ship’s log, and monitoring weather conditions.
Graduates of the Mate Level are equipped to act as capable second-in-commands, embodying leadership and expertise. They are celebrated with special recognition for their outstanding sailing skills and leadership qualities, setting them apart as Kingdom Sail’s most accomplished sailors.
Safety
Testimonials
What People Says About Us
Josh C.
Emily J.
Lori K.
Sarah P.
Josh C.
Emily J.
Lori K.
Sarah P.
