Finding the right boating school for your particular needs can be a challenging experience. In this article we will try to help you focus on what to look for in a boating school to ensure it meets your expectations and that when you graduate you have the skills you were looking for. There are many different types of programs available, there is one for every budget, skill level and type of boating you can imagine.

The first step in selecting a boating school is to decide what type of boating you would like to do; for example if you decide you would like to learn how to go white water kayaking, that is a very different school and curriculum then if you wanted to sail around the world single-handed. Ensure you choose a program that teaches what you are looking for, read class descriptions and course outlines carefully to make sure the class includes what you want to learn.

The second step is to evaluate the type of training provided. Most schools will provide both classroom and on-the-water experience. Time spent in the classroom is to review techniques and principals that you will apply later on the water, then the actual hands on experience helps to ingrain that training in your mind so you can recall and use it later on your own. Our advice is to not even consider a program that does not provide on-the-water experience.

After you have completed the first two steps you will want to consider some other factors. Is the boating school you have chosen accredited by a national body such as the American Sailing Association (ASA) or US Power Squadron? ASA graduates that have reached a certain level can qualify to charter a sailing vessel in exotic locations like the Virgin Islands without a captain, often saving significant amounts on the cost of a charter, and enjoying a trip in privacy with their family. US Power Squadron classes will often qualify the student to receive a state issued safe boating certificate or license, required in some states.

Tagged with: • •

Filed under: GPS Reviews

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!