Volunteer on a Sailboat Restoration Project in El Hierro
The experience
Help transform a sailboat into a floating home in El Hierro! Stay onboard at La Estaca Marina while helping with painting, varnishing, electrical work, renovating the kitchen and bathroom, and building custom furniture. You’ll have access to the marina facilities, with occasional nights in our guesthouse in Pozo de las Calcosas. Join an exciting project to create a unique and comfortable floating home in the Canary Islands! ⛵🌋
What you offer
25 hours of help per week
Painting & Decorating:
Help with painting or decorating the property facilities.
Building & Repairing:
Help with a wide range of repairs or building.
What you get
3 days off per week
Private Room:
You will have a bed in a private room. In other words, a room just for you.
Team Dorm:
You will have a bed in a shared room, which means you will share the same room with other people.
Free Laundry:
You can use our laundry room freely.
Pick Up:
We will pick you up when you arrive, and take you to our property.
Requirements
Over 22 years old
Welcomes solo volunteers, couples, and partners of volunteers
What's not included
Flights, Travel Insurance, Internal Transportation and Visa
Program Details
Become part of the restoration of a classic sailing yacht in one of the most beautiful and least touristy Canary Islands.
The project is based on a 1982 Tonner 330, a Swiss-built 10.90 m cruising sailboat equipped with a Volvo Penta diesel engine. She is currently moored at La Estaca Marina, on the island of El Hierro, and is undergoing a complete refurbishment.
I’m looking for one volunteer or a couple who enjoy DIY projects, restoration, sailing or simply learning new practical skills.
You will have the boat entirely to yourselves during your stay. I do not live on board, so you’ll enjoy a unique level of independence while taking care of the project.
Accommodation is on the sailboat, with full access to the marina’s showers, toilets and other facilities. Occasionally, if you wish, you may also spend a few nights in our guesthouse in the beautiful coastal village of Pozo de las Calcosas.
The future of the boat is still being decided. It could become:
* a unique floating accommodation,
* a boat for excursions around El Hierro,
* or one day be prepared for a transatlantic adventure.
By joining now, you’ll be helping shape the future of this exciting project from the very beginning.
Activities & Shift
Around 6 hours per day, 4 days a week, with flexibility depending on the weather and the current priorities.
Main tasks include:
* Sanding, painting and varnishing.
* Checking and improving the electrical system.
* Restoring the kitchen (galley), toilet and bathroom.
* Installing the brand-new sails, already purchased and stored on board.
* Cleaning, organizing and carrying out general maintenance and DIY projects.
No professional experience is required. However, practical skills, motivation and attention to detail are highly appreciated.
I do not have a boat licence myself, so if you have a sailing licence and experience with sailboats, this would be a huge advantage. It isn’t mandatory, but your knowledge could be invaluable for preparing the boat, carrying out future sea trials, and helping bring the project to life.
Rules
* Respect the boat as if it were your own.
* Keep shared spaces clean and organized.
* Moderate alcohol consumption only.
* Follow all marina safety rules.
* Communicate openly and let us know if you have any questions or difficulties.
* Be autonomous, reliable and proactive.
This is not a luxury yacht, but a rewarding restoration project. It’s ideal for people who enjoy creating, repairing and improving things, and who would like to live aboard while discovering the incredible island of El Hierro. If you’re passionate about boats, DIY, vanlife, tiny living or simply looking for a meaningful volunteer experience, you’ll probably love this adventure.