Is this program suitable for beginners?

Yes, the sessions are designed to accommodate all skill levels, from novice boaters to experienced captains.

What kind of charts are covered in the sessions?

The program reviews official nautical charts pertinent to New Jersey coastal and inland waters.

Do I need prior experience with boating apps?

No prior experience is required, but having apps downloaded helps you engage actively during demonstrations.

How interactive are the Q&A sessions?

Very interactive; you can ask specific questions about your local waters and boating concerns in real time.

Can I join from any location?

Yes, the Google Meet format allows participation from anywhere with internet access.

Are the sessions recorded for later viewing?

Currently, sessions are live only to maximize interaction, but future options may be available.

Virtual Nautical Navigation with Whitman Marine Training

Whitman Marine Training, situated in Laurel Springs, New Jersey, is making waves with its innovative virtual program: Boater's Compass: Virtual Chart chatter. Rooted in the heart of the mid-Atlantic boating community, this one-hour web-based experience transforms how boaters of any skill level sharpen their navigation abilities without ever leaving their home. Laurel Springs lies within reach of the Delaware River and nearby coastal waters, a hub for diverse boating activities ranging from calm inland cruising to more challenging ocean excursions. Whitman Marine Training leverages this localized maritime culture, offering an educational platform that breaks down complex nautical charts, introduces essential boating technology, and provides direct access to expert instructors through live Q&A sessions.

At the core of Virtual Chart chatter is a detailed review of nautical charts, essential for understanding marine landmarks, currents, safe channels, and hazard zones — critical knowledge for navigating New Jersey’s waterways. The sessions also dive into popular boating applications such as AquaMaps, Navionics Boating, and Argo Navigation, empowering participants to harness real-time data and up-to-date charts on their devices. Conducted over Google Meet, the virtual format is both convenient and interactive, enabling learners to ask specific questions tied to their local waters or destinations.

This program’s blend of technology, practical instruction, and accessibility marks Whitman Marine Training as a standout resource for the region’s vast boating community. It provides a flexible way to improve navigation skills year-round without weather or location constraints. For boaters preparing for spring launches or seasoned captains refining their techniques, this virtual course enhances confidence and safety for every voyage on the water.

About Whitman Marine Training

Whitman Marine Training is a Pennsville Township, New Jersey-based provider of boat tours, safety education, and hands-on vessel training.
The business operates river and coastal cruises departing from Barber’s Basin Marina, including short scenic rides, multi-hour beach and sunset cruises, and family-friendly excursions.
In addition to public and private pleasure trips, Whitman Marine Training offers comprehensive boating safety courses required by New Jersey, with in-person and online test supervision options that lead to temporary state boating licenses upon successful completion.
Certified NSBC instructors lead open water and advanced maneuvering sessions focused on docking, emergency stops, man overboard drills, and confident boat handling.
The organization also runs Red Cross Adult First Aid/CPR/AED blended courses and specialized events such as scouting “Floats and Boats” activities that include buoyancy experiments, life jacket fitting, and boat building for youth participants.
Classes prioritize small group sizes and personalized instruction to improve skill retention and on-water confidence.
Charter vessels include fully equipped 24-foot training boats with a dedicated professional crew, chilled beverages on leisure cruises, and optional sunset sail scheduling.
Whitman Marine Training emphasizes safety, regulatory compliance, and practical experience to prepare recreational boaters for responsible time on the water.
The combination of licensed instruction, recognized certifications, and guided maritime excursions makes Whitman Marine Training a reliable choice for New Jersey boaters seeking instruction, certification, or memorable river and beach cruises.
Scheduling is flexible to accommodate weekend bookings for tours and classes; staff provide local route insights and safety briefings professionally tailored to each group's needs.