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need suggestion for a boating course.

Discussion in 'General Yachting Discussion' started by btyson, Jun 5, 2017.

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  1. btyson

    btyson Member

    Joined:
    Aug 19, 2009
    Messages:
    36
    Location:
    port of kimberling, mo.
    My wife and I are experienced Midwest lake boaters of 25 years with mostly 20-28' sterndrives. In addition we owned a 40' express cruiser with twins for a couple of years back in the early 90's.
    Kids have moved away and we are considering a (coastal) move. Probably Florida.
    We are interested in a boating course with hands on experience. Researching on the web I seem to see predominantly on-line courses. While this could be helpful, we both want to learn-by-doing. Idealy, utilizing a day or two aboard a 40'(?) with twins. Boat handling, anchoring, utilizing a chart, weather conditions, learning from others common mistakes. I realize a day or two does not make us Captains, but would it wouild certainly increase my/our confidence to safely enjoy cruising. The other reason to do this is to sustain/increase my wife's interest in moving forward with the idea of weekend cruising. Thoughts and reccomendations appreciated!
  2. Sea Gull

    Sea Gull Member

    Joined:
    Aug 3, 2010
    Messages:
    164
    Location:
    CT
    Chapman School, or (the right) crewed charter would be my starting points.
  3. ranger58sb

    ranger58sb Senior member

    Joined:
    Aug 20, 2013
    Messages:
    818
    Location:
    Chesapeake Bay, USA
    USCG Aux and US Power Squadrons both offer several courses. Many of these are classroom instead of hands-on, but it's mostly material you either need to know or other good info you'll likely use.

    Maybe try those, augmented with captain training.

    The Annapolis School of Seamanship here in our area offers several courses, if you fancy a learning vacation. Not sure whether some of those are hands-on or not...

    -Chris
  4. btyson

    btyson Member

    Joined:
    Aug 19, 2009
    Messages:
    36
    Location:
    port of kimberling, mo.
    Perfect! Thanks.
  5. btyson

    btyson Member

    Joined:
    Aug 19, 2009
    Messages:
    36
    Location:
    port of kimberling, mo.
    Thanks!