Advancement is an integral part of the Sea Scout experience. These experiences help Sea Scouts to set realistic goals to achieve rank, accomplish projects, and gain knowledge and understanding of the world around them. There are many opportunities for advancement in Sea Scouts. Included are the trails to Eagle and Quartermaster. Each trail is a highlight experience, but each requires the Sea Scout to set goals and follow through to achievement. The requirements for advancement were designed by Sea Scout youth to establish performance standards for all Sea Scouts.
The Sea Scout rank system consists of Apprentice, Ordinary, Able and Quartermaster.
- Apprentice – shows basic marlinspike seamanship skills, safety, and basic ideals.
- Ordinary – must know the Ideals of Sea Scouts, be an active member for six months, learn specials skills relating to boats, marlinspike seamanship, piloting, communicating, swimming, safety, and cooking.
- Able – must be able to explain and demonstrate a complete knowledge seamanship skills, earn the Lifesaving merit badge, complete a long cruise, and must be an officer in his or her ship.
- Quartermaster – the highest rank attainable by a Sea Scout and is equivalent to Eagle Scout. The Sea Scout must attend at least three-quarters of all Ship meetings and special activities over eighteen months, demonstrate marlinspike seamanship and leadership skills, demonstrate the ability to teach Sea Scouts skills, complete a Quartermaster Leadership Service Project (community service project) and pass a council level board of review.
Sea Scouts who achieved First Class rank in a Scouts BSA Troop can continue their trail through Star and Life ranks to Eagle as Sea Scouts.
Click here to learn more about the Sea Scouts advancement program.