Most sailing ships take what they call trainees, who pay to be part of the crew. The Picton Castle takes people who are absolutely raw recruits. But you can't just ride along. You're learning to steer the ship, navigation; you're pulling lines, keeping a lookout; in the galley you're cooking.
“I'm glad I started so young, because you are really able to endure so much at that age.”
“I have worked all my life, wanted to work all my life, needed to work all my life.”