In a move that could revolutionize recreational boating safety, the BoatUS Foundation has teamed up with Coastal Maritime Training to launch affordable, hands-on powerboat training courses in Old Saybrook. This initiative comes just in time as boaters begin to flock back to the waters of Long Island Sound, eager to shake off the rust of the off-season. But are they really ready to tackle the choppy waters and crowded docks? That’s where this new training program steps in.
The courses, priced at a mere $225 for a three-hour session, are a steal considering the value they offer. Taught aboard 21- to 24-foot single-engine powerboats, these hands-on classes ensure that each student gets ample time at the helm. With a maximum of four students per vessel, the instructor-to-student ratio is impressively low, guaranteeing personalized attention from a U.S. Coast Guard licensed instructor.
The curriculum, following the National Safe Boating Council guidelines and conforming to the American National Standard (ANSI) for on-water skills, covers a range of essential topics. From basic steering and gear shifting in the “Intro to Boating” course to advanced maneuvers like 180-degree turnarounds and person-overboard retrieval in “Open Water Advanced Maneuvering,” there’s something for every skill level. This year, two new courses have been added to the roster: “Open Water Boat Handling” and “Open Water Advanced Maneuvering.” These courses delve into more complex topics like using boat trim, displacement and planing handling, and crossing waves and wakes.
But what sets this program apart is its flexibility. For those who prefer private instruction aboard their own powerboat, Coastal Maritime Training offers customized training programs tailored to a specific vessel and a captain’s needs. They even have a program for first responders to enhance their boat handling skills. Talk about thinking outside the buoy!
So, what does this mean for the future of recreational boating? Well, for starters, it could lead to a significant uptick in boating safety. With more boaters receiving hands-on training, we might see a decrease in accidents and mishaps on the water. Moreover, this initiative could spark a trend of affordable, accessible on-water training programs across the country. After all, if boaters in Old Saybrook can benefit from this, why not boaters in other locations?
However, there’s a catch. The success of this program hinges on its adoption by the boating community. If boaters don’t sign up, the program won’t run. So, it’s up to the boaters to take advantage of this opportunity and set sail towards safer waters.
As for the maritime industry, this news should serve as a wake-up call. If a nonprofit organization can offer affordable, high-quality on-water training, why can’t more commercial entities? It’s high time the industry starts challenging the norm and prioritizing boater education and safety. After all, a safer boater is a happier boater, and a happier boater is good for business.
So, let’s raise a glass (of water, of course) to the BoatUS Foundation and Coastal Maritime Training. Here’s to safer waters, more confident boaters, and a future where every captain knows their stuff. And if you’re a boater in Old Saybrook, what are you waiting for? Sign up for a course at BoatUS.org/On-Water and let’s make this summer a safe one.
