In-Command Seamanship Training announces a safe boating program for teens

In-Command Seamanship Training © Mike Martel

In-Command Seamanship Training offers on-the-water powerboating skills as well as classroom instruction for teens in its Skipper Club™ program.

"Our Skipper Club teaches teens ages 13-19, the necessary on-the-water boating skills and classroom instruction for the RI Boating License," says Capt. Carol Beecher, Program Director for In-Command. "Through these valuable lessons for teens, we are helping prepare the next generation of safe boaters."

The National Safe Boating Council, in partnership with In-Command Seamanship Training and the U.S. Coast Guard, developed The Skipper Club for boating-minded teens interested in learning these essential skills," says Capt. Dave Fetherston, Owner of In-Command. "All Rhode Island boaters born on or after January 1, 1986, must have a RI State Boating License to operate a powerboat on our waterways. Our program goes well beyond the classroom; this is real-time, hands-on training and maneuvers under the watchful eye and instruction of USCG-licensed Captains," Fetherston adds.

"Our Skipper Club is a week-long, Monday through Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm series of instruction modules. During the on-water course, teens will be led through a step-by-step progression focusing on terminology, equipment, steering, stopping, docking, avoidance turns, person overboard and retrieval, with no more than 4 students per boat," Fetherston says.

The classroom component will focus on rules of the road, knot tying, navigation, and all necessary material for students to pass their State Boating Exam, which will be administered on the last day of the program. No boating experience is required; based on skill levels, students move through the program at their own pace.

For more information about the Skipper Club and to sign up, visit www.incommandri.com/events/skipper-club

In-Command is the only full-service, certified training center in the region that is a partner with US Powerboating, Boat US Foundation and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. Located in the heart of Wickford RI historic village on the west side of Narragansett Bay, In-Command also offers Women In-Command, developed and taught by women, for women as well as private skill development training on our boats or the customers.

For more information about In-Command Seamanship Training, visit www.incommandri.com, tel. 401-4SAFETY (472-3389).