Online courses for boat are provided by several institutions and some colleges as well. These programs are conducted in live training classes. But there are now some classes which offer some of the training online.
Coursework Overview
Boating classes cover different topics. You can specialize in training, operation and other maritime activities. Depending on the course, you may have to study waterway navigation, seamanship and analyzing the weather.
Personal watercraft safety is also covered. Other courses center on navigation, coastal cruising, boat handling and basic sailing. Other aspects that you can study are to be a GPS operator, use radar and be an ocean yacht master. There are also courses for being a coastal skipper, bar crossing and getting a maritime restricted operator’s certificate.
Format
These marine schools usually have core and specialty courses. The core course may be on marine VHF radio, boat master, day skipper and sail cruising. Specialty courses include club safety boat operator, sea kayak, basic and advanced sea survival.
You can also study to be a marine medic, outboard and inboard engine maintenance. Students can also learn about inland waterways, personal watercraft, windsurfing and powerboating. Other subjects may have to be studied.
Specialty Short Programs
These usually just take a couple of days to complete. The typical subjects are on diesel engines, sea survival, offshore safety, first aid and professional practices and responsibilities. When studying diesel engines, you will learn how to resolve problems with the machine.
Courses for Boat Captains
Licenses are released by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Licenses are released via regional exam centers. A license is necessary if you have a boat for hire. A Transportation Worker Identification Credential is also required.
You can study in several training schools, and some are online. In traditional courses, it takes over 50 hours to complete this course. Flexible schedules are usually provided.
Requirements
The tuition fees vary, but they usually cost at least $500. Applicants have to be 18 years old at least. To get a boat captain license, you need to be a US citizen. You must also have an up-to-date first aid certificate. Aspiring boat captains have to pass a drug test. A physical exam is also required. There may be other subjects needed.
As you can see, online courses for boat can be very diverse. The requirements in these classes also change from time to time. It is essential that you explore all their features.