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Newport Coast Maritime Academy

The leader in powerboat training, our training guarantee upon successful completion of our certification courses you will qualify for owner/operator insurance coverage or we’ll refund your course tuition..

BASIC CRUISING COURSE

Learn to maneuver your vessel in close quarters, docking, rules of the road, aids to navigation, chart reading, anchoring, emergency procedures & VHF radio operation.

COASTAL CRUISING COURSE

Learn to plan and execute an overnight cruise, utilize radar, recover a person in the water, anchor outside a harbor, pick up a mooring and navigate into an unfamiliar harbor during daylight.

NIGHT OPERATIONS COURSE

Learn to operate your vessel at night or in limited visibility using radar, chart plotter & GPS, identify other vessels on radar, recognize light configurations and safely enter an unfamilar harbor.

DESTINATION COURSE

Learn to plan, weather route and navigate a 100NM+ cruise with you at the helm. Accompanied by a professional instructor, a 100% real-world long-distance passagemaking cruise.

NAVIGATION COURSE

Learn advanced skills to navigate your vessel using an electronic chart plotter, GPS and radar. Build confidence and skills to safely navigate in unfamiliar waters, at night or in limited visibility.

MAINTENANCE COURSE

Learn to identify, maintain, troubleshoot and repair basic vessel systems and mechanical equipment. What you learn can potentially save thousands of dollars in unnecessary repairs.

Why Choose Us

Newport coast maritime academy is an accredited us powerboating training school. our professionally trained instructors and curriculum have been approved by the ca dept of boating & waterways, american national standards institute (ansi) and the national association of state boating law administrators (nasbla)., our instructors are professionally trained, u.s. coast guard licensed captains with years of command experience and thousands of miles logged underway. our mission is to deliver training courses that empower students with the skills and techniques to become safe and proficient vessel operators..

Destination Training

Interested in learning how to plan, provision, and navigate to over-the-horizon destinations? Our Destination Cruising Course will teach how to safely plan, provision and navigate to destinations outside of your home port area. Our instructors will guide you thru all aspects of cruise planning and accompany you on your journey in an exciting real-world training environment.

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We guarantee upon successful completion of our powerboat certification courses you will qualify for insurance coverage as an owner/operator or we’ll refund your course tuition..

Frequently asked questions

Why train with Newport Coast Maritime Academy?

Newport Coast Maritime Academy is one of a select group of training institutions accredited by US Powerboating. Our professionally trained instructors and curriculum have been approved by the CA Dept of Boating & Waterways, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).

How much experience do I need to take the Basic Cruising course?

None! Whether you are a novice boater or this is your first vessel we will tailor the training program to meet your specific needs and goals.

Can I get my California Boater's License?

Yes! Because we are a US Powerboating school, we are approved by the California Department of Boating and Waterways to administer the CA Boaters Card exam as part of the BASIC CRUISING COURSE.

Will I be able to charter a vessel as Captain if we go abroad?

Yes! The US Powerboating Basic Cruising, Coastal Cruising and Night Operations courses, when combined, are recognized by many charter companies as qualification to charter their powerboats.

Do I have to take the US Powerboating certification couse to get insurance coverage as an owner/operator?

No. For owners who desire only to qualify for insurance coverage as an owner/operator we offer a non-certification BASIC POWERBOATING COURSE.

Why choose Newport Coast Maritime Academy?

Newport Coast Maritime Academy is one of a select few schools accredited by US Powerboating; the national leader in pwoerboat training. This ensures the training you receive has been approved on a national and state level and will be specific to your boat, your boating environment and hands-on with your vessel.

• Safe Powerboat Training
• Safety & Rescue Boat Handling

Get out of the classroom and behind the wheel!

US Powerboat Training offers the nation’s best and most comprehensive hands-on powerboat courses. Whether you’re looking for your first experience at the helm or aiming to improve your skills, we can help. As the National leader in on-the-water powerboat training and education, our goal is to empower students with the skills and confidence they need to get more out of their boating experience and become more comfortable behind the helm.

Whether you are looking to operate a powerboat under or over 26 feet, we have a course to cover it.

The best on-the-water powerboat instruction available, our courses.

Whether you are a lifelong boater looking to brush up on your skills or have never been on the water before, we have opportunities available for you! We offer a range of boating courses for individuals of all skill levels. Our hands-on, on-the-water courses get you out of the classroom and behind the wheel for an educational experience unlike any other!

Search & Rescue Training

Safety & Rescue Boat Handling

Happy Boaters

“We had the best boating experience!!! Kevin was so helpful and great to work with!! He went above and beyond expectations. He took us to the sandbar to search for sand dollars!! We also saw two dolphins in the intercostal. One of the best days ever!!”

COLLEEN STEPENSON RETTINGER

“I couldn’t have been more lucky to be out on the water learning and experiencing sailing, power boating, rules of the water, and knots with such a great instructor. Kevin is very knowledgable and calm on the water. If you haven’t been on the water this would be the best way to start. Kevin has great people to help him out when needed. I never felt unsafe or uncomfortable. These courses gave me the confidence and skills to take my boat out.”

“If you’re looking for the best instruction on how to sail or operate a power boat, Kevin is your guy. Through his relaxed and calm demeanor and detailed instruction, I gained the confidence I needed to dock a boat and change tack to dodge the ferries. He will practice with you until it becomes second nature.”

Meet The Team

Capt. Kevin Hennessey

Kevin has been boating for 25 years. His love and passion for teaching and boating awarded him Instructor of the year from American Sailing Association for 2015.

Capt. Al Noble

Al has over 25 years on the water and tens of thousands of cruising hours under his belt. He maintains his 100 Ton Captians license and when he isn’t sailing can be found kayaking or fishing for trout in western North Carolina with his wife. Al has a passion for the sea that is unrivaled and experience that surpasses most.

OUR MISSION

Our mission aligns closely with the strategic objectives of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division. We aim to support them in their mission to make America’s water ways safer for all and to minimize property damage, personal injury and loss of life by creating a new generation of educated and experienced recreational boaters.

[email protected]

606 W West St, Southport, NC 28461

How to Get Started in Powerboat Lessons: Everything You Need to Know

You’ve heard the saying, “practice makes perfect.” Well, for those of you who are considering getting started in powerboat lessons, it would be wise to heed that advice. It’s not always easy to get into a boat shop and sign up for some practice runs with an actual powerboat. But, with a little bit of preparation, it doesn’t have to be as difficult as you may think.

How To Get Started in Powerboat Lessons: Everything You Need to Know is a detailed guide that can help you navigate the waters of becoming a professional powerboater. If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level by learning how to safely handle these powerful machines, this article is a must-read!

Knowing how to drive a boat under waterfalls is something most people dream about as future careerists at their local marina. Being able to leap from a vessel and perform stunts on the waterfalls is what most pros train for – but there are many different ways one can go about that path. In this article, we discuss everything from what you need to know about getting into powerboating lessons (and whatnot), to where and when you should practice driving your new craft — all before going out on real waterfalls.

What skills do I need to learn how to drive a powerboat?

There are many different types of boat driving, and to find the right one for you, you’ll first need to understand what skills you’ll need to learn. Powerboat driving is unique because it’s both a slower and more technical skill set. When it comes to learning to drive a powerboat, you’ll need to understand powerboat regulations and how to navigate and respond to various situations that may arise on the water.

What will skill-wise pay the most at my local marina?

It’s important to note that the pay rate for powerboat driving is not set in stone. What you may find at a local marina may be quite low considering the level of training you’ll receive. As a new driver, you may find more opportunities to work as a deckhand on larger vessels across the Atlantic or Pacific. This may be an option if you’re looking to make a quick dollar and wouldn’t mind missing out on some of the benefits of a career in powerboating. Pay rates for powerboating vary significantly from marina to marina and from region to region within a marina. This is because each marina is unique with its own mix of experienced and less experienced boat drivers. There are also many different types of boats for different skill levels. An expert’s boat may be quite different from a beginner’s boat. Deciding which type of boat you’d like to drive may well depend on your skill level and goals.

Powerboat driving lessons are not for the faint of heart!

No matter which type of boat you choose to drive, you’ll need to spend some time getting to know the controls and basic procedures. Powerboat driving is not an easy endeavor. It involves a great deal of practice and requires a great deal of patience. It’s also important to note that powerboating is a very challenging sport. You may find that you’re better at driving a slower, more technical boat. In that case, you can save your energy and focus on building your skills in that area before moving on to the next step in your training — learning to drive a fast boat.

Why choosing LA Powerboat Academy is the best choice on taking your first boating lessons?

At Los Angeles Powerboat Academy, we pride ourselves on providing the best possible training for our students. We believe that our students’ best opportunity to develop their skill set and achieve success in powerboating is through instruction from certified professionals. At Los Angeles Powerboat Academy, we teach our students the proper techniques for driving all types of boats. We believe that our students’ best opportunity to develop their skill set and achieve success in powerboating is through instruction from certified professional captains.

Is there a place to practice my driving in Los Angeles?

You’ll need to be able to exercise specific skills to operate a boat safely. Practice on concrete boat ramps is not going to cut it. The water is cold, the water is clear, and there are no standing waves to be had. If you want to get ready for the real thing, you need to take your skills on a lake, river or the ocean. Most lakes and the ocean are perfect for training. You can always find a large lake or the ocean nearby if you want to get your practice in on the water. In addition, many marinas have large, dedicated training areas you can use for your practice runs.

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Private Boat Operator training with calm, experienced instructors.

Offering in-depth training from licensed professional Captains and Instructors 

PRIVATE Boat training with maximum wheel time

Hands-on Professional Instruction

We provide expert Boat Operating instruction, Boat Handling and Seamanship to all levels of boaters. We teach the basics of Rules of the Road on the water, using your electronics, navigating and maritime safety. Private Boat training and semi private boat training on the water with maximum time at the helm. 

Our curriculum has been developed over years of experience by marine safety officers that have taught hundreds of recreational and professional boaters. 

Highly Qualified Educators

All of our instructors have achieved Coast Guard Masters licenses and hold several additional advanced certifications in their field and are experts on the water. Our instructors bring this enthusiasm, experience and CALM into their lessons. At Boat Ops Academy, we take pride in our team of expert instructors who possess extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in boating. Our carefully crafted curriculum caters to beginners and seasoned boaters alike, ensuring that everyone receives the necessary skills to handle a boat confidently. From understanding navigational rules and safety protocols to mastering docking, anchoring, and maneuvering techniques, our comprehensive courses cover all aspects of safe and efficient boat operation

Variety of Courses

Whether you're looking for new boater certification, advanced certification or offshore certification, we provide informed, calm, skilled and enjoyable training.

Being on the water is and should be fun!

Our Training Captains

Captain abby.

Captain Abby spent 25+ years as a Baywatch Rescue Boat captain- LAcoFD and crew. During that time teaching close to 400+ professional boat operators. He carries several certificates including a 100 ton Coast Guard Master License. After retirement from LAco Fire Department as a Baywatch Captain and Paramedic, Capt. Abby began teaching exclusively to private boaters and to those that want to sharpen their skills. 

Captain Pete

 Boat Handling and Training Specialist | 100-Ton Boat Captain | US Navy Veteran    With over 40 years of maritime expertise, Captain Pete Axelrod is a highly skilled and experienced 100-ton boat captain specializing in basic boat handling and training. His extensive knowledge and unwavering dedication to safe and efficient operations make him the go-to professional for all your boating needs.    Having served in the United States Navy, Captain Axelrod brings a disciplined and detail-oriented approach to his work. He possesses an exceptional understanding of navigation, seamanship, and emergency procedures, ensuring a secure and reliable boating experience for his clients.    Captain Axelrod's passion for sharing his expertise led him to become a sought-after trainer. He takes pride in patiently instructing both novice and seasoned boaters, imparting practical skills and instilling confidence on the water. His ability to tailor training sessions to individual needs and learning styles sets him apart.    Whether you require expert boat handling, personalized training, or guidance in navigating challenging waters, Captain Pete Axelrod guarantees professionalism and a deep commitment to your safety. Contact him today to enhance your boating skills and embark on unforgettable maritime adventures.

Captain Kimo

Captain aiden.

Captain Kimo began operating vessels on Catalina at an early age. After spending years fishing and cruising in Catalina waters he earned a 100 ton USCG Masters license. He operates Catalina Express high speed power catamarans. Additionally, he operates Long Beach Aqualink ferry boats the Aquabus for the Long Beach Transportation System. Over the years he has gained a large amount of expertise in local waters. In both these positions he as acted as a trainer to employees of Catalina Express and Aqualink. Captain Kimo excels in calm, easygoing instruction. 

Captain Aiden is a highly skilled and experienced fishing captain with a passion for the ocean and a deep understanding of the art of angling. Holding a USCG (United States Coast Guard) license, Captain Aiden has spent over 10 years honing his skills in boating and fishing.

Captain Aiden's journey began while working on sport fishing boats, where he gained invaluable knowledge about various fishing spots and learned how to effectively target a wide range of species. Through countless hours spent on the water, he has developed a keen sense of the behavior and habits of different fish, enabling him to consistently provide his clients with memorable and successful fishing experiences.

In addition to his expertise in fishing, Captain Aiden is also a dedicated educator. He takes great pride in training boaters on how to safely operate vessels, emphasizing the importance of navigation, safety protocols, and responsible boating practices. 

With Captain Aiden at the helm, you can expect an unforgettable fishing adventure characterized by professionalism, expertise, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, his wealth of experience and friendly demeanor will make your time on the water both enjoyable and rewarding. Get ready to reel in remarkable catches and create lasting memories under the guidance of Captain Aiden.

Captain Fipp

Captain Fipp is 100 ton USCG master licensed captain and a local waters expert. He grew up spending summers on Catalina Island in Avalon CA as a 4th Generation Summer Islander. In addition to joining Boat Ops, he currently is a professional Boat Captain with Catalina Express, a renowned transportation company operating between the mainland and Catalina Island. He also is a captain with AquaBus for Long Beach Transit in Long Beach and Shoreline Marina and RainbowHarbor. Captain Fipp has strong focus on customer service and vessel safety. He addresses passenger inquiries and concerns with professionalism and courtesy. His experience at Catalina Express has not only honed his navigational skills but also instilled a deep appreciation for the importance of teamwork and effective communication in achieving operational excellence.

Our Courses

New boater operations course (small boat) - call for pricing.

This 3 hour course is designed to take a new boater through basic intro to rules of the road, vessel pre-departure procedures and then a progressive approach of throttle control, steering instruction and basic boating. We pride ourselves on the hands on approach giving you maximum time at the wheel. This class level is for students wanting to operate boats from 18-35 feet. (the training takes place on a 21’ Regal OBX or 24’ Center console boat, based on availability).

This course will make a new boater confident enough to safely leave a slip, maneuver, dock along-side and return smoothly to the slip

Offshore/Advance - Call for pricing

Our 3 hour Advance training will take the intermediate boat operator through offshore operations, and more advanced maritime skills necessary to safely operate, anchor/moor and return you, your crew and your vessel home. (Training takes place on our vessel) 

Take that open water journey with confidence and know how to keep your family and friends safe. You’ll be able to boat safely and learn how to handle emergencies on your boat. 

Custom "On Your Boat" Training Ops

Trailer ops -launching and retrieval w/land maneuvering.

• This entry level training has been developed with the boater in mind who needs training on their own personal vessel. We go through a series of Academy exercises and skill building techniques tailored to your skill level, slip or marina and your personalized needs. By the end of the training, you will be adept at throttle control, steering, docking and coming in and out of your slip safely on your vessel.
• Recognizing that each individual has unique needs and goals, Boat Ops Academy offers customized training programs. Whether you're a beginner seeking an introduction to boating or a seasoned boater aiming to enhance specific skills, we tailor our courses to meet your requirements. Our flexible scheduling options and personalized instruction ensure that you receive the attention and guidance you need to achieve your boating objectives.

(Be aware more than one session may be required contingent on your individual Insurance co. requirements and your needs)  

Call for information and pricing

• Vessel size limit 65’ 

Our Trailer Ops training will familiarize you with launching and retrieval of a trailable boat, emphasizing important safety concerns and checklists. We will cover maneuvering a tow vehicle and trailer and backing down a launch ramp, in order to launch and retrieve a vessel. 

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How to Drive a Boat: Step-by-Step Guide

So: you haven't owned a boat before, but after discovering that the boating lifestyle is awesome (we agree!), you've begun exploring our Boat Finder Tool—and luckily, you've found your ideal boat. 

Now, you're probably thinking that your next big challenge will be learning how to drive that boat—and you're right—but don't let the prospect feel daunting.

Remember the first time you sat behind the wheel of a car? You may have experienced a bit of trepidation then, too. But you probably got over it quickly, and driving became second nature before you knew it. In all likelihood, you'll have a similar experience as you learn how to drive your boat.

This post will review the basics of learning how to drive a boat.

How to Drive a Boat

1. If your boat is powered by gasoline and has an engine compartment, run the "blower" (an exhaust fan) as per the manufacturer's recommendations before starting the engine to ensure there isn't a build-up of fumes in the compartment. This is an excellent time to run through your Pre-Departure Checklist . 2. Put the key into the ignition (some modern boats have push-buttons instead), and turn it to start the engine. 3. If the boat has a "kill switch" (also known as an engine safety cut-off, which automatically turns the engine off if you leave the helm for any reason), clip the lanyard on a belt loop of the life jacket ring. 4. Ensure all your gear is aboard and all your passengers are ready to disembark.  5. Remove all the lines securing the boat to the dock, pier, or slip. 6. Engage forward (or reverse if you need to back out of a slip) by gently pushing the throttle handle forward (or pulling it back) until you feel it shift into gear. 7. When the boat begins moving, spin the wheel just as you would turn the steering wheel in a car to determine the direction of travel. 8. Advance the throttle as appropriate to reach the desired speed. 9. Trim (adjust running attitude) the boat as appropriate for the conditions. 10. When you want to slow down, gently pull the throttle back towards the neutral position.

How to Get a Boating License

How to Start a Boat

Starting a boat is as simple as turning the key, but there are a few safety items you need to be aware of that aren't present in automobiles and which may prevent the engine from turning over.

Engine Safety Cut-Off or "Kill Switch"

The first safety item that's important to note is one we mentioned above: the kill switch or engine safety cut-off. This is a small red knob found next to the ignition on most small or open boats. 

In the closed position, the switch won't allow the engine to start. A small clip fitted to slide under the knob pulls it back into the open position. This clip is attached to a lanyard with a tether clip on the other end. 

Before operating your boat, you should always clip this onto a loop on your lifejacket or a belt loop. Then, if you move away from the helm, the lanyard yanks the clip out from under the knob, and the engine immediately stops.

Another safety feature that can prevent a boat engine from starting is the throttle, which must be in the neutral position. If the boat battery is turned on and fully charged, you turn the key, and the engine doesn't start, it's often because the kill switch is engaged or the throttle isn't neutral.

How to Operate the Boat's Throttle

Think of a boat's throttle like a car's accelerator pedal. However, unlike a car, it stays there once you adjust it to a specific speed. Therefore, slowing down requires more than just taking your foot off a pedal; you must grasp the throttle and pull it back. This is important to remember because when you see a large wave or lots of incoming traffic, you must be prepared to move the throttle accordingly.

This brings up an important point we still need to cover: situational awareness. When driving any motorized vehicle, it's crucial to constantly monitor your surroundings for anything that might require a response—a traffic light, pedestrians, other vehicles, etc. The same is true when you're operating a boat. 

In boating terms, this is referred to as "maintaining a proper lookout." As the boat captain, you must always watch your surroundings and recognize when there's a risk of collision, running aground, hitting a big wave, or any other factor that could require a response at the helm.

How to Steer a Boat

As we pointed out, using a steering wheel on a boat is very similar to using a steering wheel in an automobile. You turn the wheel, and the boat follows—mostly.

You need to always remember that there are other factors influencing a boat’s direction of travel, like wind, waves, and current. As a result, boats may handle differently in different conditions and a turn of the wheel may not always change the boat’s direction exactly as planned. This can be particularly frustrating when docking, which many new boaters describe as one of the most challenging maneuvers to learn. So before you give it your first shot study up on the process, by reading our  Docking a Boat: a Step-by-Step Guide .

Once you have steering and docking down pat, you may be tempted into making long cruises to distant ports, or fishing hotspots that are beyond eyesight of the marina. To get there and back safely, you’ll need to take another big step in your boating career and learn how to navigate a boat .

Understanding Boating Right of Way Rules

How to Slow a Boat

We already mentioned that you have to manipulate the throttle to get a boat to slow down, but since boats don't have brakes, there's a bit more you need to know.

• First, become familiar with your boat and learn how much stopping distance is required to come to a complete stop safely when running at different speeds.
• Remember, boats don't have seatbelts and are subject to much more motion than land vehicles. As a result, abrupt changes in speed or direction can throw people off balance or even cause them to fall overboard.

All of that said, you can slow a boat fastest by:

first pulling the throttle back to neutral;

pausing for a moment; 

then shifting into reverse and applying some power.

Remember to always pause in neutral and don't shift directly from forward into reverse because quickly shifting can cause mechanical damage in some boats.

It's also important to note that many other aspects of driving a boat relate to your and your passengers' safety. Most states require you to take an boating safety course before running your own boat. 

How to Trim a Boat

With the basics under your belt, you'll want to learn some of the finer points of driving a boat that will help it run smoother and more efficiently. One essential item to remember is how to trim a boat. Trimming consists of manipulating the outdrive's angle or deploying "trim tabs" (small plates on the stern of the boat).

• How you trim it determines how high the bow rises in relation to the stern and how to level the boat does or doesn't run.
• Trim is different on every boat, so trial and error is the best way to learn how your boat responds to changes in drive angle and/or using tabs.
• Also, keep in mind that on smaller boats, shifts in weight distribution (such as a passenger moving from one area of the boat to another) can cause changes in trim.

Learn More: How to Trim a Boat

Conclusion: Practice Makes Perfect!

All boat models are more or less unique, but a few require some special attention. Pontoon boats , for example, have some unusual traits. 

One final word of advice: remember that all boats are different, and it takes some practice to learn how to drive any boat.

You Might Also Like:

• How to Launch a Boat
• How to Anchor a Boat
• How to Tie Up a Boat

Editor’s Note:  This article was updated in February 2023.

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Powerboat driving lessons

Are you uncomfortable putting your boat into the slip? What about pulling up to a fuel dock or passenger pickup point in a marina? Do you worry about the effect of wind on your boat? Do you know how to read the wind? Do you understand the boat’s momentum? Do you know where to check engine fluids? Even know what fluids are involved? What about safety equipment on your boat? Ever drift in a tight anchoring area toward other boats? Who has right of way when boats approach each other? What if one is a sailboat? What about a tow boat? What will the authorities require when you’re stopped on the water? How should you tow a child on an inflatable? We can answer each of these questions for your boat! And maybe you can answer each of these questions accurately….what about your spouse or child if you get injured while on the water? Water safety and proper handling of power vessels on the water are critical to the personal safety of everyone on the lake. We all need to be properly educated and practiced.

Your first lesson will be a minimum of three (3) hours on the water. We are happy to teach one or two people at a time. These are typically couples or family members. However, progress will be individual and limited to the least experienced person being taught. Your specific curriculum will be planned based on your background and preferences. All instruction will emphasize safety and conservatism of boating practices as well as confidence building.

The curriculum we apply is designed to help the student build confidence in handling their own boat. Whether it is a single or multiple engine vessel, propeller or jet, V-drive or outdrive, small or large. The instructor is experienced in everything from jet skiis to 80+ foot vessels and personally owns and operates a jet ski, a 45 foot sailboat, a high speed inflatable dinghy, a classic ski boat, and a 74 foot cruiser. He is licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard as a Master Merchant Marine Captain for power and sailing vessels up through 100 gross tonnage and will personally teach you at whatever pace works for you.  Whether you are the primary boat driver or backup, Sail Austin will work with you until you develop the confidence you need to be a responsible and reliable boater… and we will do it on your boat or a rental boat! Call 817.909.2378  to arrange your private lessons today!

GENERAL CURRICULUM INCLUDES (subject to customization):

• Key maneuvering concepts – momentum and wind effect
• Safety equipment
• Proper anchoring equipment
• Preparing the boat for departure from the dock
• Boat start-up checklist
• Departing the dock (including sound signal)
• Handling “prop walk”
• What “no wake” actually means
• Cruising straight ahead
• Common courtesy on the water
• Emergency turns
• Safe towing practices – tubing, skiing, wakeboarding
• Using trim tabs
• Using a chart plotter
• Boating without a chart plotter – visual terrain characteristics
• Right-of-way
• Sound signals
• Handling wakes
• Safety/legal considerations
• Weather awareness and getting caught in bad weather
• Scouting anchorages
• Spinning vs turning vs backing up
• Approaching a dock – “16 point practice”
• Maneuvering inside a variety of marinas
• Emergency procedures
• Instrument awareness
• Boat lighting
• Navigation rules
• Navigation and other markers
• Maneuvering
• Handling a boat at night
• Returning to the dock
• Basic cleat hitch and line storage techniques
• Preparing and departing from the boat

How do you cover all of this in three hours? You don’t! YOU have to decide to become a safe and confident boater. We will help you accomplish that objective. Call Cap’n Tim at 817.909.2378 NOW to reserve your time!

Our Locations:

South shore hurst harbor marina 16405 clara van street austin, tx 78734 usa north shore northshore marina 6612 lantern view drive jonestown, tx 78645 usa, captain tim best 817-909-2378 [email protected], useful links, hourly weather forecast lake travis area map lake level other useful links.

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Prerequisites:  None Required! Recommended Age:  10 - Adult Location : Your boat or Ours!

All classes are 16 hours and include:

Classroom sessions  .

Starting and Safety Safety, preparation & weather Maneuvering concepts

Boating Equipment Registration & capacities Equipment requirements Preparation & fueling procedures

Navigation and Rules of Driving Navigation rules of the road

Aids to Navigation and Environmental Regs Aids to navigation Environment regulations

Exam Review Session Review for the Final Exam (separate session)

On-the-Water Boat Lessons

On-The Water (Deck Hand) Engine & electrical systems Starting procedures

Docking Leaving & returning to a slip Close-quarters maneuvers

On-The Water (Deck Hand) Anchoring Steering a range Proceeding to a destination Person in Water rescue

Final Exam Skill

Certified Drivers License, Certified in all states! Earn your boat insurance savings by joining boat lessons.

• Charter A Yacht on San Francisco Bay
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• Wild As The Wind Writing + Sailing Retreat
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• Private Powerboat Lessons and Certifications

Private Powerboat Lessons for US Powerboating Certification

As Northern California’s premier US Powerboating training center, our powerboat classes are taught by top – caliber certified USCG captains. With Passage Nautical and the US Powerboating curriculum, you take the nation’s best and most comprehensive hands-on powerboat classes .

Just starting out?  Our Safe Powerboat Handling course will get you comfortable behind the wheel in just 2 days . ; whether you already have some experience operating a small motorboat or you’re just starting out, you will learn how to safely operate a small motorboat.  

The Accelerated Safe Powerboat Handling course covers the same materials but in 1-day for people with some boating experience. From there, you move on to the advanced Cruising Powerboat courses. These courses can even help get you ready to earn your California boater card. No matter what boating course or water courses you take, you will be ready to enjoy SF Bay, while operating a powerboat.

As Northern California’s only fully licensed on-the-water powerboat school, our goal is to give you the skills and confidence you need to get more out of your boating life. Whether it’s your first experience at the helm , or your goal is to improve upon existing skills, we have a powerboat course to help you reach your goal.

PRIVATE COURSES OFFERED

Powerboat handling classes – beginner and refresher, safe powerboat handling.

This full day hands-on, on-the-water course is for anyone who has taken a classroom boating course and needs experience to safely operate a small motorboat or has previous experience and just needs a refresher to improve their boat handling skills. This motor boat training course includes class materials, fuel and boat insurance.  If you are searching for power boating lessons near me then this course will be sure to meet your expectations.

ACCELERATED POWERBOAT HANDLING

This full day  hands-on, on-the-water course is for anyone who has taken a either a classroom boating course and needs experience to safely operate a small motorboat or has previous experience and is looking to refresh and improve boat handling skills. Class materials are given prior to the course and students are expected to study the materials at home.

Cruising Powerboat – Advanced Classes

Looking for some advanced boat driving lessons that include hands-on?  Passage Nautical Enterprises can help with sailing lessons in San Francisco and include the hands-on-boating lessons that give you the confidence to safely operate your boat.

BASIC POWERBOAT CRUISING

INSHORE POWERBOAT CRUISING

NIGHT OPERATIONS

Get two free online sailing courses

Home  Course Types  Safe Powerboat Handling

Course Types

Safe powerboat handling, course description, this 16-hour hands-on, on-the-water course is for anyone who wants to learn how to safely operate a small motorboat and improve their boathandling skills. no previous experience is required the us coast guard and the national association of state boating law administrators (nasbla) have approved this course and an increasing number of states have recognized it as meeting their requirements for a state boating education certificate..

These national and state approvals call for the course to include a total of six to eight hours of classroom sessions covering required education topics.

US Sailing Membership is not required to participate in a Safe Powerboat Handling course

On-the-Water Sessions

• Engine & electrical systems
• Starting procedures
• Leaving & returning to a slip
• Close-quarters maneuvers
• Steering a range
• Proceeding to a destination
• Person in Water rescue

Classroom Sessions

• Safety, preparation & weather
• Maneuvering concepts
• Registration & capacities
• Equipment requirements
• Preparation & fueling procedures
• Navigation rules of the road
• Aids to navigation
• Environment regulations

Prerequisites

• None, no experience necessary!

Suggested Age

• 10–adult (may be affected by state minimum age)

Certification(s) Earned

• US Sailing/US Powerboating Safe Powerboat Handling Certificate (NASBLA Approved)
• State Boating Education Card (in applicable states)

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