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• Safe Powerboat Training
• Safety & Rescue Boat Handling

Get out of the classroom and behind the wheel!

US Powerboat Training offers the nation’s best and most comprehensive hands-on powerboat courses. Whether you’re looking for your first experience at the helm or aiming to improve your skills, we can help. As the National leader in on-the-water powerboat training and education, our goal is to empower students with the skills and confidence they need to get more out of their boating experience and become more comfortable behind the helm.

Whether you are looking to operate a powerboat under or over 26 feet, we have a course to cover it.

The best on-the-water powerboat instruction available, our courses.

Whether you are a lifelong boater looking to brush up on your skills or have never been on the water before, we have opportunities available for you! We offer a range of boating courses for individuals of all skill levels. Our hands-on, on-the-water courses get you out of the classroom and behind the wheel for an educational experience unlike any other!

Search & Rescue Training

Safety & Rescue Boat Handling

Happy Boaters

“We had the best boating experience!!! Kevin was so helpful and great to work with!! He went above and beyond expectations. He took us to the sandbar to search for sand dollars!! We also saw two dolphins in the intercostal. One of the best days ever!!”

COLLEEN STEPENSON RETTINGER

“I couldn’t have been more lucky to be out on the water learning and experiencing sailing, power boating, rules of the water, and knots with such a great instructor. Kevin is very knowledgable and calm on the water. If you haven’t been on the water this would be the best way to start. Kevin has great people to help him out when needed. I never felt unsafe or uncomfortable. These courses gave me the confidence and skills to take my boat out.”

“If you’re looking for the best instruction on how to sail or operate a power boat, Kevin is your guy. Through his relaxed and calm demeanor and detailed instruction, I gained the confidence I needed to dock a boat and change tack to dodge the ferries. He will practice with you until it becomes second nature.”

Meet The Team

Capt. Kevin Hennessey

Kevin has been boating for 25 years. His love and passion for teaching and boating awarded him Instructor of the year from American Sailing Association for 2015.

Capt. Al Noble

Al has over 25 years on the water and tens of thousands of cruising hours under his belt. He maintains his 100 Ton Captians license and when he isn’t sailing can be found kayaking or fishing for trout in western North Carolina with his wife. Al has a passion for the sea that is unrivaled and experience that surpasses most.

OUR MISSION

Our mission aligns closely with the strategic objectives of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division. We aim to support them in their mission to make America’s water ways safer for all and to minimize property damage, personal injury and loss of life by creating a new generation of educated and experienced recreational boaters.

[email protected]

606 W West St, Southport, NC 28461

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WELCOME TO THE RPBA

POWERBOATING - MAKE YOUR PASSION YOUR LIFESTYLE! The Recreational Powerboating Association is the leading authority for hands-on powerboat instruction, powerboat certification & powerboat schools in the United States. Take powerboating instruction through our network of certified powerboating schools with certified powerboat instructors . Through our powerboat courses , the RPBA will help you learn powerboating and achieve powerboating certification safely & with confidence. RPBA Certified Students can go from basic powerboat maneuvering to advanced powerboat courses, then enjoy powerboat vacations around the world. EARN POWERBOAT CERTIFICATION WITH THE RPBA The Recreational Powerboating Association is committed to helping you understand, appreciate and fully enjoy the incredible world of powerboating. Whether you need to fine-tune your existing powerboat handling skills, meet your state’s safe boating requirements or learn basic powerboat handling as someone completely new to the world of powerboating, the RPBA’s comprehensive set of powerboat training courses , network of professional powerboat training instructors and powerboat training schools provides the solution. The RPBA will do much more than simply show you the basics; our affiliated schools can teach you everything you need to be a skilled and experienced powerboater, including helping you earn your powerboat certification. If you'd like to learn more, the best way to start your journey is to explore TheRPBA.com for more information on learning to powerboat.

Polish up your docking skills!

The Recreational Powerboating Association will be conducting “Close Quarters Powerboat Handling” clinics using its newly developed training simulator at 5 indoor boat shows during January and February to promote awareness of its training programs and kick off its instructor development efforts.

Close Quarters Powerboat Handling

Close Quarters Powerboat Handling is an intensive, 12-hour powerboat handling course that is designed to provide the skills necessary to maneuver a powerboat confidently, competently and safely in tight spaces. Successful completion of the program indicates the student has demonstrated competence in handling either a twin inboard, single inboard or outboard/stern drive vessel in close quarters in light wind and or currents.

The goal of this course is to teach safe, efficient use of radar for small-craft navigation in any condition of visibility. Radar teaches safe, efficient use of small-craft radar for piloting, chart navigation, and collision avoidance, including radar principles and practical matters of radar operation as well as using a realistic PC based radar simulator to illustrate radar measurements. This course covers a broad range of topics related to radar. Specific topics to be learned include, how radar works, interpreting the screen, position navigation, radar and navigation rules.

Boater Education Card

By taking a boating safety course with the Recreational PowerBoating Association's partner, BoaterExam.com™, you help make our waterways safer and more enjoyable. Your boater education card may help you avoid fines from states where mandatory boater education laws are in effect, and may also entitle you to a reduction on your marine insurance.

Boating Safety Tips

The captain’s first and primary responsibility is for the safety of the vessel, passengers and crew. A prudent skipper always conducts a safety briefing prior to departure, because the best preparation for emergencies is a well trained crew. Crew training is the responsibility of the skipper and it is prudent to conduct drills with the crew to include: man overboard recovery, fire and abandon ship procedures.

RPBA Schools

• Boating Safety
• Twin Inboard
• Single Inboard
• Stern Drive / Outboard

Our Drivers Education courses will meet your needs for both US & International Travel and let you save on insurance with our partners .

United States - SaferBoater Certification for Powerboats below 26 Ft

International - IPC  ( International Proficiency Certificate ) for Sailboats & MotorYachts

Women make the majority of boat-buying decisions, but most never learn to drive the boat!

Our SaferBoater "Women Making Waves" course features a certified and experienced female captain and exclusive all-female class that fosters a fun and supportive environment, perfect for building skills and confidence.

Come and embrace the adventure of boating!

We remain open Year-Round and our instructors boast the highest level of certifications & training in the industry.

As an internationally accredited Training School , you have access to a wide variety of education classes, certification opportunities, and personalized skill-building training.

All courses are taught on the water, with classes ranging from 4 to 44 hours, depending on the level of skill or certification desired.

Enroll in Boat School (Power , Sail , Yacht)

On-the-Water Driver's Education for Powerboats equips Boat operators with the Essential Knowledge and Practical Skills Necessary to pass a Skills Evaluation and Knowledge Exam to meet all State Boating Requirements

As a rigorously Trained & Certified US Sailing School, we are one of only a handful of schools in the entire United States authorized to certify you with an international Sailing certification. You Do Not need to be a member of our school

As a rigorously Trained & Certified US Powerboating School, we are one of only a couple of schools in the entire United States authorized to certify you with a MotorYacht IPC certification.  The IPC is required to rent boats in all EU Waters.

Learn How OUR Graduates Save BIG on Boat Insurance

"There is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.”

- Kenneth Grahame

"The instruction was excellent. High quality student instruction along with practical real-world application. Plenty of review on tips and techniques." 

"Captain Robert Meeker was great. He did an incredible job going through the content and explained everything in a clear and concise manner. Highly recommend for all boaters."

Save Big on Boat Insurance!

• 75% of boating accidents involve an operator with no training.
• 42% of new boat buyers get out of boating within 5 years if they have had a negative experience

Protect Your Family

• Boat Fail Videos have drawn the attention of litigation lawyers like never before.  Google "Boat Accident Lawyer" in your area and see what happens

"Outstanding! I feel much more prepared for routine operations and emergencies.”

"Thank you both Tanya & Robert for making this class fun and educational, and being excited and eager to answer and listen to all of our questions. I will definitely recommend this to my friends and family." 

"Very good! Sailed with Tim for years and have always held him and his skills in high regard. I learned so much, even as an expert sailor."

Why Choose Us?

SaferBoater Set the Standard

Any licensed captain can theoretically teach you the basics of how to drive a boat. So what is the SaferBoater Difference?  

To start, we developed the nations First and Only standardized & certified on-the-water training courses.  This means you could visit hundreds of our captains and get the same premier boater training, regardless if you attend a class in Maine, Florida, Texas, or California.

Equally as important, you will gain the knowledge, capability and legal eligibility required to buy, rent & operate boats in each state that requires a boating certificate.

As an added benefit, our curriculum will qualify you for significant savings on insurance with our certified insurance partners.

SaferBoater students also build practical knowledge quicker because we teach our certification lessons first in a classroom and then on a boat! Our hands-on training approach dominates the old, boring classroom-only or online style used by other schools.

Every course we offer is hands-on and water based, with expert instruction provided by Certified Sailing/Powerboat Instructors.  We empower students with the skills and confidence they need to get more out of their boating experience, all while allowing them to become safer boat operators.

We also hold the distinction of being one of the only accredited schools for US Powerboating and US Sailing in the U.S.

Classes are held year-round, with Specialty Programs catering exclusively to women, families, private groups, teens & youth aged 10+, and first-time boat owners.

So while there may be many boat captains, we have the only standardized system available to turn you from a novice to a confident captain in just a few short days.

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Not Sure Where to start?

We offer courses For Beginners up to master captains...so if you have questions, we have answers.

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Cruising Powerboat Certifications

US Powerboating Basic Powerboat & Cruising Certification

Us powerboating inshore power cruising certification and night operation endorsement.

With coaching from a powerboat expert you will move through the skills required for certification and build confidence operating a 29-40′ twinscrew powerboat in light to moderate conditions.

The course includes both hands-on instruction and theory to expand your seamanship knowledge and practical boat handling skills. Course topics include boat systems, engine and helm controls, docking and close quarter maneuvering, boat control in open water, anchoring, emergency procedures, VHF radio operation, charts and aids to navigation. This course is approved by NASBLA and US Powerboating. Students who successfully pass the written test and successfully complete the knowledge and skill requirements (see Certification Standards book) will receive a US Powerboating Basic Powerboat Operation and Cruising Certification and be eligible to apply for the California Boater Card. Course materials along with pre-course homework will be mailed to students ahead of time to allow you ample time to prepare for your class.

• Introduction to Powerboats or equivalent experience.
• Students must be 16 years of age or older
• Able to swim 50 yards.
• US Powerboating Safe Powerboat Handling Part 1 recommended
• Min 2- Max 4 students.
• US Powerboating Start Powerboating Right

Check the Schedule for upcoming classes and Register online >

Private sessions for groups of two or more:    Call The School at 949-645-9412 to arrange dates.

Learn passage making, piloting and night operation”

This course is for experienced powerboaters seeking an overnight cruising and live aboard experience, and an Inshore Powerboat Cruising Certification.

The course will focus on the skills, knowledge and equipment needed to safely operate a cruising powerboat on a multiday, near coastal passage by day and night in unfamiliar waters.  Course topics include boat preparation, boat handling, close quarter maneuvers, navigation, provisioning, cruise planning and float plans, docking, anchoring, windlass use, picking up a mooring and crew overboard.

Your class begins with an introduction to vessel systems and equipment aboard prior to a short evening shake-down cruise.  Over the next two days you will gain valuable experience in planning voyages, explore various anchoring, mooring and docking techniques, and dealing with situations arising underway.  The course will revolve around destinations on either side of the San Pedro Channel such as LA/Long Beach Harbor, Dana Point, Newport Beach, Santa Catalina Island and Huntington Harbor.

A passing grade on both the written and practical test is required for certification.  Tests will be administered underway.  Course materials and pre-course homework will be available ahead of time to allow you ample time to prepare for your class.

Your course fee includes fuel, most study materials and certification.  A basic provisioning budget will be provided.  Navigation tools and charts, transportation, hotel and meals ashore are not included.

• Ability to swim 50 yards
• US Powerboating Basic Powerboat Cruising Certification
• Three or more days underway on a 30’ or longer powerboat.
• Coastal Navigation 1  strongly recommended for all students
• Min 2- Max 4 students

Powerboating for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide to the Technique and Safety of Powerboating

If you’re looking for an exciting way to spend your weekends or vacations, then powerboating may be the perfect activity for you. This water sport combines speed, adrenaline, and the beauty of the open water. However, before you rush out to buy a boat and hit the waves, it’s essential to understand the technique and safety of powerboating.

What is Powerboating?

Powerboating is a water sport that involves using a powerboat to navigate through the water. It’s a popular activity among water enthusiasts who enjoy the speed and thrill of riding on the water. Powerboats come in various shapes and sizes, from small, inflatable boats to large yachts.

Types of Powerboats

There are different types of powerboats, and each type is designed for a specific purpose. Some of the most common types of powerboats include:

Bowriders are open boats that feature an open bow area with seating in the front. They’re ideal for cruising, water sports, and fishing.

Center Consoles

Center consoles are boats that have a central console with a steering wheel and controls. They’re versatile boats that are designed for fishing, cruising, and water sports.

Cuddy Cabins

Cuddy cabins are boats that have a cabin in the bow that can be used for sleeping or storage. They’re ideal for overnight trips and cruising.

Deck boats are boats that feature a wide, flat deck and a V-shaped hull. They’re ideal for cruising, water sports, and fishing.

Fishing Boats

Fishing boats are boats that are designed for fishing. They come in various sizes and styles, from small, open boats to large, fully-equipped vessels.

High-Performance Boats

High-performance boats are boats that are designed for speed. They’re ideal for racing and water sports.

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats are boats that feature a flat deck and two pontoons on either side. They’re ideal for cruising and entertaining.

Safety Precautions

Before you start powerboating, it’s essential to take some safety precautions to ensure that you and your passengers are safe on the water. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Wear a Life Jacket

Always wear a life jacket when you’re on a powerboat. It’s essential to choose a life jacket that fits properly and is suitable for the type of boating you’re doing.

Check the Weather

Before you head out on the water, check the weather forecast. It’s essential to avoid boating in inclement weather, such as storms or high winds.

Know the Rules

Make sure that you know the boating rules and regulations in your area. It’s essential to follow these rules to ensure that you and other boaters are safe on the water.

Use Navigation Aids

Always use navigation aids, such as GPS or charts, to navigate on the water. It’s essential to know where you are and where you’re going to avoid accidents.

Never operate a powerboat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It’s essential to have a clear mind and be alert when you’re on the water.

Powerboating Techniques

Powerboating requires some specific techniques to ensure that you’re safe and in control of the boat. Here are some basic techniques to keep in mind:

Throttle Control

Throttle control is essential when operating a powerboat. It’s essential to know how to control the speed of the boat to avoid accidents.

Steering is another critical technique in powerboating. It’s essential to know how to steer the boat properly to navigate through the water.

Docking is another essential technique in powerboating. It’s essential to know how to approach a dock and moor the boat safely.

Turning is a technique that requires some practice to master. It’s essential to know how to turn the boat properly to avoid capsizing or colliding with other boats.

Anchoring is essential when you want to stop the boat and stay in one place. It’s essential to know how to anchor safely and securely.

Powerboating is an exciting and thrilling water sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. However, it’s essential to understand the technique and safety of powerboating to ensure that you and your passengers are safe on the water. By following the safety precautions and mastering the basic techniques, you can enjoy the beauty and excitement of powerboating while staying safe and in control.

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Home  Education  Instructor  Powerboat Instructor Programs

Powerboat Instructor Programs

Fill out the Looking for an Instructor Course form and we will contact you when an instructor course becomes available.

US Powerboating Instructor Courses All links redirect to US Powerboating.com. Please note that successful completion of the corresponding student level course is a prerequisite for all US Powerboating Instructor level courses.

Safe Powerboat Handling Instructor

An intensive 3-day course for advanced powerboat operators who will operate boats 26 feet and under, instructor candidates will learn the fundamentals of on-the-water instruction. Candidates must successfully demonstrate superior presentation, teaching, and powerboat operation skills in order to complete this course.

Learn more about becoming a Safe Powerboat Handling Instructor

Safety & Rescue Boat Handling Instructor

This hands-on, on-the-water course is for anyone who will be using powerboats to perform safety and rescue functions. It is designed for regatta personnel, marine patrols, police and fire rescue personnel, park rangers, and on-the-water sailing instructors and coaches

Learn more about becoming a Safety & Rescue Boat Instructor

Mark Set Boat Handling Instructor

The Mark Set Boat Handling Instructor Course prepares the Safe Powerboat Handling Instructor to teach the Student level Mark Set Boat Handling Certification Course.  The course is offered as a one-and-one course.  The actual instructor course is a one day, 10-hour course.  It is typically preceded by a one-day student level MSBH course to help potential candidates meet the prerequisite. This course is taught by US Powerboating Mark Set Boat Handling Instructor Trainers.

Learn more about becoming a Mark Set Boat Handling Instructor

Cruising Powerboat Instructor

This is a three-day evaluative course for experienced boat operators.  Most of the time will be spent on the water demonstrating and critiquing boathandling maneuvers and demonstrating and discussing teaching techniques applicable to single and twin-screw cruising powerboats.

Learn more about becoming a Cruising Powerboat Instructor

Powerboat Instructor Trainer Programs

US Powerboating Instructor Trainers represent the highest level of experience in the field of powerboat training. Acceptance into Trainer Level courses is done through a resume and application process only.

Instructor Trainer Courses frequency varies- some courses are held annually while others are only held every few years. For Cruising Powerboat Instructor Trainers, there is no course but rather a co-teach with a senior Instructor Trainer.

***Candidates must be a minimum of 24 years old and hold a current instructor certification for the level they’re seeking to be a Trainer.***

Apply to be an Instructor Trainer

U.S. Coast Guard Captain's License Training

US Sailing members receive a 10% discount on registration in Mariners Learning System’s educational resources and training opportunities. Members can access their Mariners Learning System discount, along with a host of other benefits and discounts on gear, publications, and events, by logging into Member Login  to access your benefit.

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Bonnie Braddock Learning Design and Development Specialist Email Bonnie Braddock

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Home  Resources

Welcome to the US Powerboating Resource Center

The Resource Center is intended to provide Training Centers, Instructors, and boaters of all types with useful information on a variety of boating-related topics. From engine maintenance to rules of the road, we aim to provide the most up-to-date and relevant information to the boating public.

If there are topics that you would like to see or would like to contribute, please  contact us .

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