Whether a seasoned boater or new to the water, a BoatUS membership offers essential benefits that enhance your safety and experience. From hands-on training to community building and cost savings, here’s why every boater should consider joining BoatUS.

1. Expert-Led Safety Courses

BoatUS provides a variety of safety courses covering everything from basic first aid to advanced navigation techniques, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation on the water.

2. Hands-On Training with In-Command Seamanship Training

At In-Command Seamanship Training, our partnership with the BoatUS Foundation is critical to our practical learning experiences. We offer an introductory On-the-Water Training program in the scenic locale of Wickford, RI. This program is a fun and affordable way for boaters of all skill levels to start building their boat-handling skills or to complement their existing skills. Our courses are developed in collaboration with the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) and US Powerboating, ensuring a comprehensive training experience.

This program comes with a special offer: 

Get a Free BoatUS Membership add-on when you purchase courses.

Reserve your spot now and select ‘Yes, I am over 18 and would like a free 1-year basic BoatUS Membership (US residents and new members only). 

Info will be emailed within 3-4 weeks.

Available Training Programs:

Intro to Boating:

  • Duration: 3 hours on the water.
  • Students per Boat: 3-4.
    • Skills Covered: Centering the wheel, shifting gears and throttle control, preparing the boat for departure, steering straight at idle speed, and station holding.

Precision Docking & Boat Handling:

  • Duration: 3 hours on the water.
  • Students per Boat: 3-4.
    • Skills Covered: 180-degree turnarounds, docking on port & starboard, departing from the dock, using S.C.A.N. procedures.

Open Water Boat Handling:

  • Duration: 3 hours on the water.
  • Students per Boat: 3-4.
    • Skills Covered:  Utilizing boat trim, displacement & planning, object avoidance, ferrying, and emergency stops.

Open Water Advanced Maneuvering:

  • Duration: 3 hours on the water.
  • Students per Boat: 3-4.
    • Skills Covered:  Crossing waves and wakes, person overboard retrieval, sharp turning on plane, advanced avoidance.

These training sessions are designed to meet the needs of beginners and intermediate boaters alike, providing them with practical, hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. Each course is crafted to ensure that participants learn the theory behind safe boating and apply these skills immediately on the water, enhancing their confidence and proficiency.

Our dynamic and interactive training approach ensures that BoatUS members are well-prepared to handle their vessels safely and enjoy a more fulfilling boating experience. By training at In-Command Seamanship Training, members gain valuable skills directly applicable to their boating adventures, enhancing safety and enjoyment on the water.

Reservations for these training programs can be made through the BoatUS website, ensuring easy access and booking for all prospective students.

3. Comprehensive Educational Resources

Educational courses can enhance your understanding of boating laws, equipment maintenance, and more. Resources are tailored to all levels of experience.

4. Community and Networking

Join a vibrant community of boaters. BoatUS organizes events and get-togethers that offer networking opportunities and foster camaraderie among members.

5. Significant Savings on Products and Services

Members enjoy exclusive discounts on boating gear, services, and even fuel, helping to reduce the overall cost of boating.

6. Legal Protection

BoatUS membership comes with added legal support, providing you with expert advice and assistance in navigating maritime laws and regulations.

7. Improved Emergency Response

Your membership equips you with the skills to respond to emergencies effectively, enhancing safety for you and everyone aboard.

8. Environmental Stewardship

BoatUS encourages and supports sustainable boating practices, helping members contribute to marine conservation and cleaner waterways.

9. Enhanced On-Water Assistance

With BoatUS, help is just a call away. Enjoy peace of mind with 24/7 access to our on-water assistance services.

10. Access to Exclusive Member Events

Participate in exclusive member-only events, including educational seminars and fun gatherings celebrating the boating lifestyle.

Dive into the World of BoatUS

A BoatUS membership prepares you for a safe, enjoyable boating experience and connects you with a community of like-minded enthusiasts. 

It’s an investment in enhancing your capabilities, safety, and boating enjoyment 

Dive into the world of BoatUS and take your boating to the next level with the support of In-Command Seamanship Training.