Volunteer Opportunities
A variety of roles from bridge team to deckhand, engineer to boiler attendant, working on the hull and rigging, in the engine room and on deck machinery. Tasks include scaling and painting, washing down and buffing up the paint and brass-work; servicing a unique assembly of classic boilers and steam engines. Working conditions can be hot, cold, dirty and in sometimes cramped surroundings but always satisfying.
Description of Role:
The William C Daldy is a historic steam ship, the last of its size and class in the world still in survey. Her rigging, steelwork and deck machinery requires constant maintenance to ensure we keep her in top condition and able to safely carry passengers on board while sailing the harbor, this enables us to continue raising money to ensure her survival. Deckhand volunteers will be expected to carry out a range of tasks under the direction of the Mate on the day or the skipper.
Work Environment:
You must expect to work at times in a harsh environment which is the open deck of the vessel. Fighting rust and maintaining a clean and tidy that looks attractive to passengers takes many hours of hard work mainly during the winter months in order to prepare the ship for her sailing season. When not in steam, the ship reflects seasonal temperature variations.
Physical demands:
Work place access can involve climbing ladders and stages, kneeling on a steel deck and use of relatively heavy and noisy machinery. Awareness of risk and the ability to work with only minimal supervision is essential.
Sample Scale:
- To scale, paint and clean according to the regular maintenance program.
- To Work on rigging and deck machinery under supervision
- To keep up to date with any relevant training
- To keep the Mate informed of any issues that arise, especially Health and Safety.
- Other tasks as agreed with the designated Mate.
Description of Role:
William C Daldy is a historic steam ship whose engines and deck machinery need to be constantly maintained to ensure her ability to carry passengers and achieve income to support her preservation. Engine Room Volunteers will be expected to carry out a range of tasks under the direction and supervision of the Chief Engineer or delegate.
Reporting to: Chief Engineer
Work Environment:
You must expect to work in the busy and sometimes cramped environment of a working engine room. Working with steam engines is very different to modern day diesel machinery and can be dirty and heavy. When not in “Steam” the ship reflects seasonal temperature variations.
Physical demands:
Workplace access involves the climbing of ladders and sometimes the need to enter cramped machinery spaces. As with any heavy machinery environment, awareness of risk and the ability to work with only minimal supervision is essential
Sample Scale:
- To dismantle, repair and rebuild machinery according to a regular maintenance. programme.
- To undertake cleaning, painting and polishing of historic machinery.
- To keep up to date with relevant training.
- To keep the Chief engineer informed of any issues arising, especially Health and Safety.
- To run an engine when sailing and carry out other tasks while at sea.
Description of Role:
The William C Daldy is a historic steamship maintained entirely by volunteer effort. During the summer months the ship cruises the Waitemata Harbour area where passenger management is primarily the responsibility of the Purser team. The role of the Catering volunteer (working with the Purser) is to ensure that food, drinks and other items are managed in a manner that our passengers/visitors have an enjoyable experience whilst aboard the ship.
Reporting to: Catering Manager
Work Environment:
The role will be undertaken in the unique environment of a passenger carrying Steam Tug built more than 80 years ago. The wellbeing and comfort of passengers is paramount to our operation. The role is not dissimilar to that of a hotel or restaurant customer but with the added complexity and risk awareness of providing the service on a ship moored or sailing.
Physical demands:
Workplace access will involve some climbing of gangway and companionways, work on an open deck and in the galley or BBQ area. Awareness of risk and the ability to work with only minimal supervision is essential.
Sample Tasks:
- To assist with setting up for functions
- To assist with pre-ordering food and supplies
- To support the bar staff and deck crew where instructed or required
- To keep up to date with any relevant training
- To keep the Department Head informed of any issues that arise, especially Health & Safety issues.
- Any other tasks as agreed with the Designated Team Leader or Department Head.
Description of Role:
William C Daldy is a historic steam ship and whilst the maintenance and management of the ship itself is important, it is equally important that we look after the museum side of the operation and display the ship in the best way possible for the public to see and appreciate what it is we have. We are looking for volunteers with great people skills who would be willing to run guided tours and answer questions while out on the harbour
Reporting to: Curator
Work Environment:
You will be all over the ship while running small groups or individual tours with our passengers, a general level of fitness will be required and an interest in learning the history of the Tug!
Physical demands:
There won't be a huge demand on you physically, however you will have a great sense of humour and a solid interest in the history of the ship.
Sample Tasks:
- To design and document walking tours.
- To either run or organise small party tours on board .
- To keep up to date with relevant training.
- To keep the Skipper informed of any issues arising, especially Health and Safety.
- To be available and answer any questions the passengers may have.