FAQs

Why Yachts?
Reliable and safe transport is necessary for this type of project. Medical and dental teams use the airways to reach the nearest airfields, but aircraft are unable to deliver them directly to the project areas. These are usually in the more remote areas. Water borne craft are the only practical means for transporting teams to the work areas. Because the islands are in the cyclone (hurricane/typhoon) belt, vessels can operate safely only between the months of May and October. Even during the first two to three months of this period seas can be rough. Because of their design yachts provide the safest and most comfortable transport and accommodation under these conditions.

Does PYM have sponsors?
PYM has a growing list of sponsors. Some of these are larger organisations, but the majority are small. The generosity of these organisations, supplimented by that of individuals, enables PYM to carry on its humanitarian work. The needs of the peoples in these remote areas of the Pacific are great. With continued and growing support from sponsors and private donors, much can be accomplished. Together we can make a difference.

Should you like to contact PYM regarding a sponsorship, please email the CEO.

How much does it cost to operate a yacht?
The yacht owners provide their vessels on a voluntary basis, with no remuneration apart from direct running costs e.g. diesel, outboard fuel and LPG.  As all of the vessels are sailing boats, most of the long distances are travelled using wind power alone.  PYM covers the cost of food & supplies for the duration of the tours.

How many yachts does PYM own and operate?
PYM owns one small catamaran which was generously donated.  It is currently operating in the Torres Strait Islands with a permanent skipper.

The number of yachts operated by private owners varies from year to year, but usually numbers between two and seven. PYM gratefully acknowledges the generosity of the owners of these vessels. Without them there would have been no work done. 

Is it possible to be part of a yacht crew?

Yes, it is possible to have a place on the crew of a yacht. PYM often requires crews for the ocean passages between Australia and the country where the work is being carried out. Sometimes crews are required for the shorter trips within the work area as well. Preference is given to those with experience.

Because space is limited on a yacht, for those trips involved with having the visiting medical/dental teams on board, the captain and crew double as hosts so reasonable housekeeping and culinary skills are necessary also.

Should you wish to be considered for a position as crewmember of a yacht, please read the answers to questions about the 'roles of volunteers' and 'special requirements'? Make sure that you read these first, then please email PYM's Boat Operations Officer.

Maybe PYM has some special needs that I could supply?
There are some special items that PYM needs to improve its operations. It maybe that you would like to donate one or more of these items:

  •  Digital cameras (still/movie)
  •  Laptop Computer with DVD drive
  •  Data Projectors
  •  DVD Players
  •  2.5 KVA Generators (to provide power for dental & health education equipment - must be light weight)
  •  Portable Dental Drill Unit
  •  Dental Instrument Sets
  • Field eye test kits

If you are interested in supplying one or more of these items (or the funds to purchase them), and would like further information please email PYM's Logistics Officer.

I have a yacht and wonder if PYM can use it?
Because of the heavy outlay required to purchase yachts, PYM relies heavily on the use of loaned vessels to carry out its work. When someone has a yacht that they are willing to loan to PYM for a season (or a part of a season) PYM's designated Boat Operations Officer, checks the vessel thoroughly. If the vessel meets with the required safety standards, and is suitable for PYM's operations, then an agreement is drawn up between the owner and PYM.

Maybe you have a yacht that you are willing to donate, or loan to PYM for use in this important work. If you do, please email PYM's Boat Operations Officer.

How can I become a member?
We have two types of membership - regular and corporate. Please see our membership page for more information

My question is not answered
If your question has not been answered, or you require more information, please email PYM.

What roles are there for volunteers?
As PYM's emphasis is medical and dental care and related education we require appropriately qualified professional personnel. This includes doctors, nurses, dentists & associated professionals, and optometrists. To be able to function in the field, professional volunteers must hold current Licences to Practice in their home countries, which the government of the country being visited will usually accept.

We also require volunteers for the not so glamorous jobs. We are especially grateful to those who are willing to donate their time in fund raising ventures, maintenance work on the yachts, sorting and packaging of medical and dental supplies, development of training materials, etc.

Because we believe in God's willingness to supply our needs, Prayer Partners are important to us too.

Are there any special requirements for a volunteer to be part of a yacht or team?
PYM has several requirements of volunteers. Volunteers are:

  1. To be eighteen years of age or older. Where approved by Pacific Yacht Ministries, children under eighteen years of age may accompany volunteer parents subject to availability of suitable space
  2. Responsible for their own travel arrangements including passport, visas, etc. They are responsible for the cost of their travelling expenses from their home country to the agreed rendezvous airport in the destination country and return. To provide themselves with adequate medical, travel and emergency retrieval insurance, immunization and anti-malarial therapy
  3. Required to be medically and physically fit, avoiding the use of 'recreational' drugs (including the use of alcohol and tobacco), and the inappropriate use of prescription and over the counter drugs
  4. To abide by the laws and codes of conduct of countries visited in working with Pacific Yacht Ministries
  5. To abide by Pacific Yacht Ministries Code of Conduct whilst part of the team.
  6. Required to hold membership of Pacific Yacht Ministries as a Regular Member

How do I apply to be a volunteer?
We welcome new volunteers!  Please read our Volunteer page.

How can I become a prayer partner?
If you would like to support PYM by becoming involved as a Prayer Partner please notify PYM's Prayer Partner Coordinator with your contact details.