Docking, maneuvering, anchoring, they’re all easy – that is, if you have been making a living on the water and piloting boats day in and day out for the past 20 years. For those of you that do not fall into that category, boat handling instruction might be the solution.
After 32 years of experience in the cockpit as a commercial airline pilot, I decided to combine my knowledge of boating, with my piloting and instructional experience to address the needs of both novice and experienced boat operators. Some of the key differences to my approach in the area of boat handling instruction are outlined below.
Procedures & Awareness– In aircraft training, where safety is paramount, pilots are trained to understand both the concepts and the practice; follow step by step procedures; and to maintain situational awareness at all times – my boat training is based on this same approach.
Interactive Approach– As a flight instructor charged with training other pilots, I developed interactive training techniques which stress explanation; “hands-on” practice; and dialog; which not only speed learning, but increase retention – these techniques are used in every boat handling lesson.
Broad Boating Experience– Since the establishment of Capt. Ron's Nautical Services; over 300 boaters have benefited from his powerboat-handling-instruction; on watercraft ranging in size from 12’ to 60’.
Who could benefit from this instruction?
The first time boat owner
Captain moving to a new or larger boat
A spouse wanting to learn more about boat handling
Captain being assigned to a new slip or dock
All Instruction is Conducted Aboard the Students Boat.
