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Accelerated Safe Powerboat Handling
11/08/2025
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11/08/2025
 
SUNY Maritime College
6 Pennyfield Ave
Bronx, NY 10465 USA
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Powerboat Chartering Fundamentals In the BVIs
2/21/2026
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2/28/2026
 
For those looking to bareboat or cruise the world
Embark on the Center Helm experience in the British Virgin Islands, where successful completion of this week-long, hands-on course will not only make you the captain of your next island-hopping vacation but will also earn you all the certifications needed to bareboat in the US, Caribbean, Europe, and beyond. Throughout the on-water program, you will acquire essential skills to charter and efficiently operate a motor yacht globally. Acting as both captain and crew, you'll navigate a live-aboard power catamaran through the beautiful BVI waters, building both confidence and credentials to cruise in new and unfamiliar locations. No prior experience is required—just a passion for learning and a desire to explore the waters.
On-the-Water Sessions:
Advanced docking
Leaving & returning to a slip
Picking up & dropping a mooring ball
Anchoring
Dense harbor maneuvers
Open water boat control
Intermediate anchoring
Securing a large vessel
Advanced navigation
Tender operation
Classroom Sessions:
Liveaboard marine systems
Inboard engine checks
Twin-screw maneuvering concepts
Emergency procedures
Deck Safety
COLREGS
Tides & Currents
Clearing Customs & Immigration
Provisioning
Prerequisites: none
Ages: 21+
Certification(s) Earned:
Basic Powerboat Cruising
Inshore Powerboat Cruising
International Proficiency Certificate© (required for chartering in the European Union)
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Basic Powerboat Cruising
5/09/2026
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5/10/2026
 
Ready to take the helm with confidence? This hands-on course is designed for anyone who wants to safely operate a cruising powerboat and sharpen their boat-handling skills. Over the course of 16 hours, you’ll split time between engaging classroom learning and real on-the-water training aboard a full-sized yacht.
Recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as a standard in boat handling, this certification is your gateway to bigger boating adventures—whether that means docking confidently in Chicago’s busy harbors or preparing for your first charter in the islands.
On the Water, You’ll Learn:
How to start and handle engines and onboard systems
Docking and maneuvering in tight quarters
Steering ranges and navigating to destinations
Person-in-water rescue techniques
Real-world yacht systems and safety checks
In the Classroom, You’ll Cover:
Safety, preparation, and weather essentials
Navigation rules and aids to navigation
Equipment requirements and fueling procedures
Environmental regulations and best practices
Course Details:
No prerequisites required – beginners welcome
Ages: 18+
Certification Earned: US Powerboating Basic Powerboat Cruising Certificate
When you finish, you won’t just know the theory—you’ll have the confidence, hands-on skills, and a nationally recognized certification to back it up.
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
5/11/2026
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5/14/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
5/18/2026
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5/21/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
5/25/2026
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5/28/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
6/01/2026
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6/04/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising
6/06/2026
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6/07/2026
 
Ready to take the helm with confidence? This hands-on course is designed for anyone who wants to safely operate a cruising powerboat and sharpen their boat-handling skills. Over the course of 16 hours, you’ll split time between engaging classroom learning and real on-the-water training aboard a full-sized yacht.
Recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as a standard in boat handling, this certification is your gateway to bigger boating adventures—whether that means docking confidently in Chicago’s busy harbors or preparing for your first charter in the islands.
On the Water, You’ll Learn:
How to start and handle engines and onboard systems
Docking and maneuvering in tight quarters
Steering ranges and navigating to destinations
Person-in-water rescue techniques
Real-world yacht systems and safety checks
In the Classroom, You’ll Cover:
Safety, preparation, and weather essentials
Navigation rules and aids to navigation
Equipment requirements and fueling procedures
Environmental regulations and best practices
Course Details:
No prerequisites required – beginners welcome
Ages: 18+
Certification Earned: US Powerboating Basic Powerboat Cruising Certificate
When you finish, you won’t just know the theory—you’ll have the confidence, hands-on skills, and a nationally recognized certification to back it up.
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
6/08/2026
  -  
6/11/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
6/15/2026
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6/18/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
6/22/2026
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6/25/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
6/29/2026
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7/02/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
7/06/2026
  -  
7/09/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising
7/11/2026
  -  
7/12/2026
 
Ready to take the helm with confidence? This hands-on course is designed for anyone who wants to safely operate a cruising powerboat and sharpen their boat-handling skills. Over the course of 16 hours, you’ll split time between engaging classroom learning and real on-the-water training aboard a full-sized yacht.
Recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as a standard in boat handling, this certification is your gateway to bigger boating adventures—whether that means docking confidently in Chicago’s busy harbors or preparing for your first charter in the islands.
On the Water, You’ll Learn:
How to start and handle engines and onboard systems
Docking and maneuvering in tight quarters
Steering ranges and navigating to destinations
Person-in-water rescue techniques
Real-world yacht systems and safety checks
In the Classroom, You’ll Cover:
Safety, preparation, and weather essentials
Navigation rules and aids to navigation
Equipment requirements and fueling procedures
Environmental regulations and best practices
Course Details:
No prerequisites required – beginners welcome
Ages: 18+
Certification Earned: US Powerboating Basic Powerboat Cruising Certificate
When you finish, you won’t just know the theory—you’ll have the confidence, hands-on skills, and a nationally recognized certification to back it up.
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
7/13/2026
  -  
7/16/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
7/20/2026
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7/23/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
7/27/2026
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7/30/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
8/03/2026
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8/06/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising
8/08/2026
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8/09/2026
 
Ready to take the helm with confidence? This hands-on course is designed for anyone who wants to safely operate a cruising powerboat and sharpen their boat-handling skills. Over the course of 16 hours, you’ll split time between engaging classroom learning and real on-the-water training aboard a full-sized yacht.
Recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as a standard in boat handling, this certification is your gateway to bigger boating adventures—whether that means docking confidently in Chicago’s busy harbors or preparing for your first charter in the islands.
On the Water, You’ll Learn:
How to start and handle engines and onboard systems
Docking and maneuvering in tight quarters
Steering ranges and navigating to destinations
Person-in-water rescue techniques
Real-world yacht systems and safety checks
In the Classroom, You’ll Cover:
Safety, preparation, and weather essentials
Navigation rules and aids to navigation
Equipment requirements and fueling procedures
Environmental regulations and best practices
Course Details:
No prerequisites required – beginners welcome
Ages: 18+
Certification Earned: US Powerboating Basic Powerboat Cruising Certificate
When you finish, you won’t just know the theory—you’ll have the confidence, hands-on skills, and a nationally recognized certification to back it up.
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
8/10/2026
  -  
8/13/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
8/17/2026
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8/20/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
8/24/2026
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8/27/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
8/31/2026
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9/03/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
9/07/2026
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9/10/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising
9/12/2026
  -  
9/13/2026
 
Ready to take the helm with confidence? This hands-on course is designed for anyone who wants to safely operate a cruising powerboat and sharpen their boat-handling skills. Over the course of 16 hours, you’ll split time between engaging classroom learning and real on-the-water training aboard a full-sized yacht.
Recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard as a standard in boat handling, this certification is your gateway to bigger boating adventures—whether that means docking confidently in Chicago’s busy harbors or preparing for your first charter in the islands.
On the Water, You’ll Learn:
How to start and handle engines and onboard systems
Docking and maneuvering in tight quarters
Steering ranges and navigating to destinations
Person-in-water rescue techniques
Real-world yacht systems and safety checks
In the Classroom, You’ll Cover:
Safety, preparation, and weather essentials
Navigation rules and aids to navigation
Equipment requirements and fueling procedures
Environmental regulations and best practices
Course Details:
No prerequisites required – beginners welcome
Ages: 18+
Certification Earned: US Powerboating Basic Powerboat Cruising Certificate
When you finish, you won’t just know the theory—you’ll have the confidence, hands-on skills, and a nationally recognized certification to back it up.
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
9/14/2026
  -  
9/17/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
9/21/2026
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9/24/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Inshore Powerboat Cruising
9/26/2026
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9/27/2026
 
Explore the exciting world of powerboat cruising with this US Powerboating course in Chicago. This hands-on program offers comprehensive training and certification, equipping you with the essential skills needed for long-distance cruising or chartering boats, including those in picturesque locations like the British Virgin Islands and Croatia. Navigate Chicago's iconic waterways under expert guidance, mastering the art of inshore powerboat cruising. Join Center Helm for an immersive learning experience and embark on your journey to becoming a certified bareboat operator.
On-the-Water Sessions
Advanced docking
Advanced anchoring
Picking up & dropping a mooring ball
Radar observation
Nighttime open water & harbor navigation
Emergency procedures
Engine & yacht systems
Classroom Sessions
Tides & currents
Clearing customs at a foreign port
International navigation
Menu planning & provisioning
Environmental regulations
Prerequisites: Basic Powerboat Cruising
Ages 18+
Certification(s) Earned: US Powerboating Basic Powerboat Cruising, US Powerboating Night Navigation Endorsement, and an International Proficiency Certificate.
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
9/28/2026
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10/01/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
10/05/2026
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10/08/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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Basic Powerboat Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising, [Optional] Night Operations, [Optional] After Class Experience
10/12/2026
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10/15/2026
 
Start Powerboating Right on our fleet vessel, a 32ft single-engine Trawler. We’re pleased to offer this 4-day course with optional Night Operations. This live-aboard experience is designed for those who are exploring ownership of a cruising boat, preparing to complete America’s Great Loop, or those who wish to build their cruising portfolio for charter. Our small class size accommodates 2 people max per class. Our course provides a blend of classroom and on-the-water instruction focusing on skill mastery of the US Powerboating curriculum. Upon successful completion of the BPC and IPC, you’ll have the opportunity to take your cruising competence to the next level by extending your course into a 2-day bareboat charter for two in the picturesque cruising grounds within reach of our well-appointed marina and experience the cruising lifestyle for yourself. Visit our website for more information on this course and our complete schedule of available US Powerboating courses from May through October, annually. Give us a call to explore the ways in which you can customize our course to fit your cruising goals!
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