Lend a hand
The Ark was built by hand — and by hand she is restored. Around 12,000 timbers, seven decks and countless jobs, large and small. There is a place for everyone.
Why volunteers
Restoring a wooden ship of this size is craftsmanship. Experienced professionals work alongside young people who want to learn the trade — so that skills are not lost, but handed down. That exchange is at the very heart of this project.
The work
Carpentry, replacing rotten timber, shipbuilding techniques — from rough work to fine detail.
Painting, treating and sealing the hull with pitch and hemp — traditional craft, lasting protection.
Electrics, water, heating and lighting — everything that makes the decks work.
The Circular Lab and the rooftop greenhouse: recycling, upcycling, growing and greening.
Welcoming visitors, guiding tours, lending a hand at events and in hospitality.
Photography, social media, translation, IT, administration and fundraising.
For whom
Learn a craft in practice, alongside people who have done it for decades.
Put your skills to work on something lasting — and pass your knowledge on.
Plenty to do without any experience. Enthusiasm and reliability matter most.
How it works
Fill in the form below and tell us what you would like to do.
We contact you and look together at what suits you best.
Visit the Ark, meet the team and see the work up close.
You start — the days and hours are agreed together.
Rotterdam region, the Netherlands
16 (with parental consent)
Not required
Agreed together — from a few hours a month
Sail with us
Tell us what you would like to do and we will get in touch.
Prefer to email us first? info@thearkfromholland.com