Currently Scheduled Seminars
Are you a crew member or passenger who has no idea what's going on during a boat trip? Learn the essential skills you will need to help the skipper safely operate a recreational boat, including how to respond in an emergency. You'll become an asset on board with Partner in Command.
The Partner in Command seminar includes an introduction to boating, understanding anchoring, docking, and navigation, preparing for bad weather, first aid and on-board emergencies, and more.
- Full color Student Guide
This seminar is no longer accepting online registrations.
This seminar gives you the tools you need to use propane fuel safely on the water. Propane and butane, also known as LPG, are the most common cooking fuels used on boats. While efficient, cost effective and widely available, these fuels can also be dangerous. This seminar explains boat propane systems, propane safety, and how to keep your boat and crew safe.
- The proper way to turn propane appliances on and off safely
- How to check for propane leaks
- The basics of inspecting and maintaining your propane system
- Parts of a safe marine propane system
- How to use and store small propane fuel cylinders
- Important properties of propane and butane fuel
P/R/C Don Fiander, SN
This seminar is also available as a component of the Boat Handling course.
Lt/C Paul Loock, JN
Don't get lost in the fog.
Whether you want to navigate safely or decide what equipment to purchase, this seminar provides clear advice.
Learn how RADAR works, how to use it effectively, and its limitations as a piloting aid. You'll receive a copy of the Student Notes that has copies of the slides used in the seminar.
The RADAR Book by Kevin Monahan is optionally available.
Get familiar with your boat's VHF marine radio in just two hours. Experienced instructors teach you how to use VHF radio like a pro, including the new digital selective calling (DSC) rescue feature.
You'll also get tips on purchasing and installing VHF to get the most out of your investment. A handy waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain's QuickGuide Using VHF is optionally available with essential information that you should have aboard. This QuickGuide explains to anyone on your crew how to use the radio, a real benefit if you’re unable to help in an emergency.
P/R/C Don Fiander, SN
Are you getting the most out of your sailboat? Learn how to set up your boat's rigging and how to use and adjust your sails for optimum performance under a wide range of conditions. You'll sail like a pro using the tips from this seminar. The seminar includes a copy of seminar Student Notes. The waterproof Captain's QuickGuide Sail Trim and Rig Tuning by Bill Gladstone and North Sails is optionally available.
- Sail terminology
- Rigging terminology
- Mainsails
- Headsails
- Trimming tools
- Wind flow on sails
- Sail twist and tensioning
Don't leave the dock without knowing the rules of the road. This seminar simplifies the sometimes complex U.S. Inland Rules and International Rules, or COLREGS, for the recreational boater. Through examples, you'll discover how to avoid collisions in various situations, the differences between power and sailboat rules, and the special rules for fishing vessel.
The downloadable US Coast Guard's Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook is the supporting text. This seminar is also a starting point for study preparation for the USCG License examination.
This seminar is also available as a component of the Boat Handling course.
