Boat Crew Volunteer

The Lake District National Park welcomes over 19 million visitors a year, with many of them attracted by the beautiful stretches of water here. The role of our Volunteer Boat Crew is to positively engage with a wide range of lake users, from open-water swimmers to powerboat drivers. Our volunteers work with our staff Lake Ranger team to promote safe enjoyment of the lakes by providing information, support, advice and education to visitors.

What will I be doing?

Our Boat Crew Volunteers will:

• Provide information and assistance to lake users
• Share regular reports, information and data about lake usage to the Lake Ranger team
• Assist in the care and maintenance of the lakeshore and island properties
• Monitor the Authority’s moorings (Ullswater)

What skills do I need?

This role is technical and has some essential skills all Boat Crew volunteers must have:

• Significant boat handling experience
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work constructively in a small team
• Commitment to water safety
• Good overall knowledge of the Lake District

There are several other skills and qualifications that would be an advantage to a prospective Boat Crew volunteer:

• Navigation experience on Coniston Water and Ullswater
• RYA Powerboat (Level 2), RYA Safety Boat qualification
• Marine VHF Radio Operators license
• First Aid qualification (minimum 8 hour)
• Knowledge of lake byelaws

How often will I need to volunteer?

Our Boat Crew volunteers need to be on the water when the lakes are busiest. This means our duties are focussed on weekends, public holidays and some evenings. A patrol tends to last between 5 and 6 hours, and is undertaken in pairs. Due to the nature of the role we ask that volunteers undertake a minimum of 12 Boat Crew duties a year (including training) and are able to commit to the role for a number of years.

What training will I receive?

Boat Crew volunteers will receive an extensive training programme to ensure they can confidently and safely assist and advise lake users in a variety of situations. This will include an induction programme, First Aid training, in house boat familiarisation and handling training and regular team get-togethers to review lake activity.

What's in it for me?

This role is perfect for volunteers who are looking to share their knowledge and passion about the Lake District, and how to access and enjoy the lakes safely and responsibly. Our Boat Crew volunteers enjoy a unique perspective during their volunteering, offering a fresh take on our spectacular landscape.

In addition, you'll receive:

• Volunteer uniform, provided by our clothing partner Columbia.
• A LDNPA parking permit that can be used throughout the Lake District
• Discounts in Lake District National Park Authority shops and cafes
• Out of pocket expenses for travel to your volunteering location

How do I apply?

This is a really popular role which requires volunteers who are not only competent boat handlers but also have a great way with people! It is a fantastic opportunity to volunteer afloat, meet new people and get a different perspective on the National Park but it isn't for everyone. Before you apply, to make sure it is the right role for you, ask yourself the following:

Am I keen to welcome and assist the very broad range of lake users to enjoy their visit, speaking to all with patience and respect?

Am I competent and happy to handle a small powered craft in all (safe) weathers?

Can I commit to at least 12 days of volunteering a year?

Do I live within a reasonable distance of Coniston Boating Centre or Glennridding? We accept volunteers from Cumbria and neighbouring counties however to minimise the carbon impact of our volunteering programmes will prioritise those local to volunteering activity sites.

Answered yes to all these? You are ready to apply here when recruitment reopens in 2024.

Recruitment is temporarily on hold for Boat Crew Volunteering until further notice.

Any more questions?

E-mail us on volunteers@lakedistrict.gov.uk