Get ready to take the helm with this discounted two-day powerboating course in Seattle. Perfect for beginners eager to learn safe boating skills and gain official certification.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days (approximately 12–14 hours total)
Fitness Level
Participants should be able to comfortably stand and move on a boat deck for several hours and have basic physical mobility.
Wildlife
History
Seattle’s maritime heritage dates back to the early 1900s, with the city evolving into a key Pacific Northwest boating hub.
Conservation
Windworks Sailing emphasizes eco-friendly boating practices to minimize environmental impact and protect Puget Sound’s delicate ecosystem.
Windworks Sailing & Powerboating
Get ready to take the helm with this discounted two-day powerboating course in Seattle. Perfect for beginners eager to learn safe boating skills and gain official certification.
Windworks Sailing & Powerboating in Seattle, Washington offers a variety of hands-on sailing and powerboating experiences across Puget Sound.
The organization runs day sails, two-hour introductory outings, weekend and multi-day certification courses, skills clinics, flotillas, and seasonal events. Short experiences include the Intro-to-Sail two-hour cruise led by a USCG Captain/Instructor, and TGIF Sunset Sails on 30'–46' sailboats with a six-person limit for semi-private evenings. Practical skills clinics include Anchoring & Crew Overboard practice with on-water drills and role rotations.
Certification-focused programs include the US Sailing Basic Keelboat Series (three-day instruction with certified instructors) and the US Sailing Cruising to Bareboat five-day course that prepares participants for bareboat skipper certification. Powerboating options include a Powerboat Conversion class to train certified members on the Camano 31 trawler Clifford, taught by instructor Margaret Pommert, and a two-day US Basic Powerboat Cruising Series that leads to an international US Powerboating certification.
Community and event offerings feature the Founders Cup - Capri Race Finale and the Southern Crossing Flotilla, a four-day fall excursion in South Puget Sound. Each program emphasizes on-water practice, instructor guidance, small-group formats, and real-world seamanship skills to build competence and enjoyment on Puget Sound.
Location
Seattle, WA
Operating on Puget Sound waters
Certifications
US Sailing & US Powerboating
Courses that lead to formal certification
Signature Vessel
Clifford (Camano 31)
Used in Powerboat Conversion class
Trips Offered
11 trips
Range from 2-hour to multi-day courses
Reserve a spot for a day sail, clinic, or US Sailing/Powerboating course — small groups, expert instructors, real on-water training.
Wear Layers for Changing Weather
Seattle’s weather can shift rapidly; bring waterproof and windproof layers to stay comfortable on the water.
Bring Non-Slip Footwear
Sturdy, non-slip shoes will keep you safe and steady while boarding and maneuvering the powerboat.
Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself from the Sun
Even on cloudy days, UV exposure is high near water—use sunscreen and drink plenty of water throughout your course.
Listen Carefully to Safety Briefings
Safety instructions are crucial for operating any powered vessel – pay close attention to keep yourself and others safe.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against rain and spray, keeping you dry during unpredictable weather.
spring
Non-Slip Boat Shoes
Prevents slips and falls while on wet boat surfaces.
Sunscreen
Helps protect your skin during long exposure to sunlight on the water.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during active days on the boat.