"Sail training" is a popular program that has been carried out aboard tall ships in Europe, North America, Oceania and Asian countries for the past 30 years. It was established in order to assist in the mental development of young people from all backgrounds as well as cadets at the Navy and merchant marine. Recently the program has also been applied to the training of company employees, including executives.

With natural powers as her main guide, a tall ship sails towards her destination through the united effort of the crew hauling sheets to unfold, fold and trim sails to the winds. In addition to the sail handling, trainees on board of STS "Akogare" experience all that is necessary for life at sea: navigation, look-out, scrubbing decks, and galley work. The trainees learn to work as a team, develop a sense of leadership, and challenge difficulties. At the end of the voyage, they feel a sense of achievement and find a new sense of self among new company. Perhaps, this is what is most fascinating about "sail training".

The sail training programs offered aboard "Akogare" are Introductory Programs varying from 1 to 4 days and Ocean Programs for longer than 5 days. Although the programs differ with the duration, no prior experience is necessary to enroll in either one of the two. Group participation as well as individual participation is possible. See "How can I join?" for details.

What does "Akogare" look like? How can I join as a trainee? History of "AKOGARE"