Established in 1973, the Mystic Seaport PILOTS program was designed to give members a greater understanding of the Museum’s day-to-day operations. Working as a team to accomplish a variety of work projects, PILOTS receive special insight and behind-the-scenes views of Mystic Seaport as they work along side Museum staff.

Saturday begins with a hearty breakfast and job assignments, followed by a morning of work. The PILOTS break at lunchtime to catch their breath and refuel and then it is back to work in the afternoon. Jobs typically conclude around 3:30 or 4 p.m. so the PILOTS corps and staff can catch a break and freshen up before the “attitude adjustment hour,” a.k.a. cocktails, begins at 5:30 p.m. A buffet dinner is served and this is followed by a slide talk or other presentation by a Museum staff member about new projects, exhibits or other Mystic Seaport news.

For those who stay overnight for Sunday, the day begins with a continental breakfast followed by a PILOTS-led chapel service in the Fishtown Chapel. At around 10 a.m., a behind-the-scenes tour or hands-on activity is lead by a Museum staff member to help give the PILOTS a deeper understanding about the depth and breadth of Mystic Seaport.