Boat Operator Instruction

We offer several levels of training, all of which hinge on the hands-on operation of your watercraft. Demonstration of competency in operating your boat is what separates book, or on-line instruction, and being a competent Boat Operator. Passing an online course alone does not demonstrate a person’s ability to safely operate a boat.

Adhering to the Highest Industry Standards

Our standardized course programming offerings through SaferBoater adhere to ANSI (American National Standards Institute) guidelines and with our additional partnership with NauticEd, we are Title 40 compliant internationally (International Standards). All courses are taught by USCG licensed, certified, vetted instructors. Programming detail can be reviewed at www.SaferBoater.org

These programs include:

Skipper Small Power Boats - Up to 26 feet

  • Meets Standards American National Standard: EDU-1 On-Water POWER Standard (American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), 2015)
  • Also known as "Drivers Ed for boaters"
  • 2 day, hands on, in water training covering 42 basic operational skills
  • Final exam includes demonstration of competency of all 42 skills

Expert Assessment

  • Hands on, in water assessment for well experienced boaters of all 42 operational skills with NO INSTRUCTION
  • Approximately ½ day assessment depending upon boater experience, compliance with skillset requirements, and weather/environmental conditions.

Powerboat Cruisers 26-45 feet

  • Designed for New Yacht Owner or Seasoned Boaters
  • Combination of knowledge and skills. It is tailored specifically for "Cruisers" measuring 26 feet and above and covers both standard and some advanced equipment and systems.
  • Approximately 3 full days depending upon your operational demonstration, compliance with skillset standards and weather/environmental conditions

Experience Based Course Challenge and Assessment for Cruisers

  • Requires a knowledge based online evaluation
  • Skipper Large Powerboat Course
  • Navigation Rules for Powerboating
  • Upon successful completion of the online evaluation:
  • 42-item on-water proficiency certification
  • Essential theoretical applications
  • Basics of Boating
  • Pre-Departure & Safety Checklists
  • Mechanical & Electronic Systems
  • Securing your Boat
  • Basic Knot Tying

Customized Training Programs

SaferBoater can and has created customized training programs tailored to your specific needs and unique operations. We also can conduct hands on training for specific skill sets to "polish" what you already have experience in such as docking, anchoring, close quarters maneuvering, and more. Tell us where you want to improve and we can help.

The SaferBoater Advantage

We measure our success by your competence and safety on the water.

ANSI & NSBC Compliant

Our programming adheres strictly to the American National Standards Institute and National Safe Boating Council guidelines.

42-Skill Competency

We require physical, on-water demonstration of up to 42 basic operational skills to ensure you are truly ready to take the helm.

USCG Licensed Instructors

Learn exclusively from heavily vetted, fully licensed United States Coast Guard Masters and certified instructors.

Ready to Take the Helm with Confidence?