Boating is a wonderful lifestyle, enjoying time with friends and loved ones when the sun is shining and the water is aqua marine – life doesn’t get much better than that! Well – until an out of control boat flies right by you, scaring you and your family back to the reality that boating can be very dangerous. Many people do not receive any official training when it comes to learning to drive their boat, but why? It’s just like driving a car – you wouldn’t think of just getting behind the wheel and

driving on the highway without some form of tuition! Unfortunately in the United States there is no official form of boat driving license, therefore many people who purchase a boat are simply sent out to learn for themselves how to pilot, navigate and consider the weather elements of boating.

As strong advocates of boating safety, American Yacht Share has teamed up with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) to offer training for all experience levels, novice to captain. As part of your ‘welcome aboard’ when you become a member, you will receive training to teach you the basics of safe seamanship skill, learn coastal navigation and be taught how to notice the warning signs of dangerous situations. If you are already a seasoned boater you will simply need to demonstrate to our instructors that you possess these basic seamanship skills.

State regulations change from state to state. Some states now offer a boat safety ID card, this is typically only an enforced requirement for boaters under 21, however we feel that when it comes to your safety, and the safety of others and the vessel, you can’t be too careful therefore if you can obtain a boat safety ID card in your state, you must get one! In almost all other boating states there are coast guard approved safety courses to insure you are familiar with boat safety regulations, basic navigation and emergency procedures, passing this basic online test will be a pre requisite of your onboard training.

Once you’re qualified to safely pilot your yacht you’re free to go and enjoy the boating lifestyle, but don’t think that’s it! You will have the opportunity to improve your seamanship knowledge with continued training that will take advantage of your increased experience and confidence. You can learn all the skillsyou need to take you through to your captains license, obtaining your required sea hours along the way.

Continuing your training is an important aspect to being safe and confident on the water, however practice and time on the water is critical to your continued safety. As part of your members only section of the website, your time onboard your yacht will be recorded in your personal log. This will keep track of your sea hours and if you wish you may add entries to keep track of all your boating situations. Your personal log will also act as a warning system if you haven’t used your boat for a long time and you may wish to attend a quick refresher course before your next trip.