Sea Scout Ship 25 is happy all young people are welcome into all BSA programs. You can join Ship 25 if you are a young adult at least age 14 but not yet 21. You can also join Ship 25 if you are at least 13 years old and you have completed the eighth grade. Ship 25 is co-ed and intentionally diverse in every manner.
Sea Scouts provides young adults access to all the nautical experiences described in this website in and around the District of Columbia, but also elsewhere in Scouting. This includes local and national sea bases, massive camp properties, professional and volunteer networks, and access to the world-famous BSA advancement system of skill and character development — plus alumni connectivity. In Sea Scouts, this includes the opportunity to earn the ranks of Apprentice, Ordinary, Able and the national distinction of Quartermaster. Achieving these places a Sea Scout within a lifelong cadre of people who are respected for having shown an ability to persevere as a young person by achieving something difficult. For younger people in Scouting, you already know that in the Scouts BSA program girls are now eligible to earn the rank of Eagle Scout — a highly recognized award presented to young Americans.
You do not have to have been in a scouting-style organization before to join us. Current and past youth and adult members of other programs for young people are welcome to join Ship 25. Scouts BSA, Camp Fire, Trail Life USA, 4-H, Venturing BSA, American Heritage Girls and the Girl Scouts of the USA have no rules that would prevent anyone from belonging to more than one program. Ship 25 does not duplicate what these separate programs provide. We admire these other programs and encourage continued participation in their activities. Members of Scouts BSA Troops who have reached the Scout rank of First Class can earn the advanced Scout ranks (including Eagle Scout) in Ship 25. If you have achieved the top award in any of these organizations, we invite you to wear those awards on your Sea Scout uniform. This would include things like Eagle Scout (BSA), Gold Award (GSUSA), Stars and Stripes (AHG), Freedom Award (TLUSA), WoHeLo (Camp Fire) and Key (4-H).
Several years ago the national BSA organization voluntarily discontinued a “don’t ask – don’t tell” policy adopted in the 1990’s that prevented openly gay or lesbian youth or adults from being members. Similarly, the BSA national organization clarified that it does not treat members differently on a transgender or gender identity basis. Yes – Everyone is welcome to join the BSA and Sea Scout Ship 25.