Medical Officer

Medical Officer Bursary Berth

Ship's Doctor Sought Found For Voyage of the Atlantic World, May 2008 - June 2009

Picton Castle, a 180' square rigged sail training ship, will be setting sail on another epic voyage in May 2008. Having circumnavigated the globe four times in the past ten years, it's time for a new challenge and this upcoming voyage will see the ship spend a year sailing around the Atlantic with port calls in Europe, Africa and the West Indies. The majority of trainees will sign on for the full year, while three, six and nine month berths are available.

An Important Role

The Medical Officer plays an important role in ensuring the health of Picton Castle's crew, treating acute injuries and illnesses. In the normal day-to-day operation of the ship, the Medical Officer will function as a trainee crew member by standing watches and participating in workshops and other opportunities to learn seamanship skills unless called upon for his or her medical expertise. In emergency situations, all crew have specific duties and the Medical Officer will stand by to provide medical care to the crew as required.

Extensive Medical Supplies and Support

The ship carries an extensive medical kit that includes first aid supplies, medications, an AED and medical oxygen. Crew are required to bring their own personal medical kits including basic first aid supplies, any medications they normally take for common ailments, and an adequate supply of any regular prescription medications. All of the ship's professional crew are trained in marine first aid. Support is available through Maritime Health Services, a company that provides 24-hour physician consultation, international hospital and physician referrals and assistance arranging emergency transport, all through the ship's satellite communication system.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for this position is a doctor who seeks adventure and a chance to go to sea under sail. A certain level of physical fitness is required for all crew, as is a willingness to live and work together in a rare group living environment. The Medical Officer should have experience in situations where urgent actions need to be taken, a desire to face the challenges of medicine at sea and the flexibility and resourcefulness to deal with constantly changing situations and environments. Experience and/or training in wilderness medicine is an asset.

Experience of a Lifetime in Exchange for Your Expertise

Sailing on Picton Castle is described as the experience of a lifetime. This is a unique opportunity for the Medical Officer to combine interests in sailing, travel, adventure and medicine. In return for your stand-by medical expertise, the trainee tuition fee is waived.

For more information about this position or to apply, please contact us.

Why not learn more about the voyage, the ship and life on board?