I Have My Boater's License, Now What?

The boating education certification that you completed provided a minimal knowledge base for the safe operation of a boat.  However, operating a boat safely and with confidence is an ability that requires additional knowledge and practical proficiency that develops over time with observation, execution and encountering; in a word, experience.

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Think about this…

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For all that have a driver’s license, every person started out taking a driver’s safety education course that provided information and instruction on safety, rules and regulations; followed by practical experience driving a car.   Upon completion of “driver’s ed,” you probably went to the local driver’s license office and obtain a learner’s permit.   Once you gained enough experience driving a car, you would take a driving test; and if you passed, you would be issued a driver’s license.  

 

In contrast, a boater safety certification course, like driver’s education, gives you a good foundation for general boating safety; nevertheless, the State of Florida doesn’t require any practical experience; nor an ability to safely operate a boat.

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Think about how many boaters out there operate a vessel or personal watercraft and have zero or limited practical experience.

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iCaptain is the answer to your “Now What?” question.  Our mission is to provide practical boating experience.  Our instructors are licensed captains through the United States Coast Guard.   Each licensed captain was required to pass comprehensive exams and obtain ‎a minimum of 360 days experience operating a boat; our master captains passed additional exams and obtained an additional 360 days (for a minimum of 720 days) of practical experience operating a boat.

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The Practical Boating Skills program is extensive; containing everything you need to know as new boater or if you want to enhance your skills.  The curriculum can be tailored to fit your needs, schedule, and budget.  Whether you want to use your own boat or need access to one, all practical instruction is hands-on and includes course materials.