Who is eligible for the Master upgrade course?

Mariners aged 19 or older with at least 720 days of sea service and holding an OUPV credential or equivalent are eligible.

Can I take this course if I completed OUPV training elsewhere?

Yes, you may take the Masters Upgrade and/or Towing Endorsement classes without repeating the OUPV course if you provide valid certification.

How long is the Master license upgrade course?

The course runs approximately 9 hours, concentrated into a single day or split sessions as scheduled.

Will I get hands-on training during this course?

The course focuses on theoretical knowledge and exam preparation, leveraging your prior sea experience.

Where is the training location?

Classes are held at 750 Mary St., Clayton, New York, a central spot near the water access points.

How to Upgrade Your Captain’s License to Master 100 GRT in Clayton, New York | Boat Tour | Water Activities

Q: What does the course fee include?

Course fees cover exam fees, professional instruction, student manuals, and all materials needed.

Situated on the scenic shores of the St. Lawrence River in Clayton, New York, upgrading to a Master license opens the gateway to commanding larger vessels and steering your maritime career toward new horizons. This specialized course offers mariners the chance to obtain Masters endorsements in 25, 50, and 100 Gross Register Tonnage (GRT) increments, fundamentally expanding your ability to captain boats with more than six passengers or inspected vessels. Clayton, known as the gateway to the Thousand Islands, provides not only a charming small-town vibe but also a hands-on learning environment steeped in a rich nautical tradition.

The Upgrade to Master/Mate course is designed for mariners who have already earned their Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) license and want to elevate their credentials to handle bigger boats, essential for commercial captains targeting larger vessels or inspected passenger boats. At least 19 years of age, with a cumulative 720 days of documented sea service, candidates gain comprehensive classroom training covering navigation, rules of the road, safety, and seamanship essentials. This course goes beyond theory, combining practical insights with critical exam preparation to ensure you’re mission-ready for your Master license endorsement.

What makes this course special in the Clayton area is its integration of the region’s strong maritime culture and accessible experience on the St. Lawrence River. The rich waters here provide an iconic backdrop for aspiring captains, blending historical significance with modern nautical challenges. Maritime professionals training here join a community deeply connected to one of North America's busiest freshwater corridors — one with steep banks, variable weather, and a dynamic boating environment that demands expert knowledge and skill.

The package includes all necessary course fees, professional instruction, student manuals, textbooks, and exam fees, providing everything a serious mariner needs to advance. Whether you’re coming back to upgrade from a previous OUPV certification or seeking to add a towing endorsement, this program offers a streamlined pathway without requiring full OUPV recertification.

Located at 750 Mary St., Clayton, this course is a gateway not just to new qualifications but broader career opportunities afloat larger vessels in the commercial maritime world. For boaters looking to expand their professional license and navigate fresh waters confidently, this Master license upgrade is a pivotal step that draws on local expertise and the unique maritime environment of the Thousand Islands. For the adventurous captain ready to extend their command beyond small passenger boats, this is an unmatched doorway to the next level of maritime leadership.

About Antique Boat Museum

Antique Boat Museum, located in Clayton, New York in the scenic 1000 Islands, is North America's premier freshwater boating museum. The museum preserves and interprets the region's recreational and commercial boating heritage through collections, exhibits, and hands-on programs. Visitors can explore a collection of over 300 unique boats spanning runabouts, powerboats, houseboats, and rare classics, showcased in indoor galleries and an active boatyard.

Educational programming includes guided tours of the historic 106' houseboat La Duchesse, bronze casting workshops led by master craftsman Michael Saari, and practical training courses for mariners. Certified courses and endorsements available at the museum include the Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV - 6 Pack), Assistance Towing Endorsement, Auxiliary Sail Endorsement, and upgrade pathways toward Master/Mate credentials up to 100 GRT. These courses combine classroom instruction with on-water experience under volunteer captains.

Seasonal river cruises feature intimate 45-minute rides aboard a 30' Hacker Craft with small passenger limits to ensure a personal experience. General admission grants all-day access to exhibits, special events, and boat shows, including one of the longest-running boat shows in the region. The museum also accepts donations and supports preservation through membership and volunteer programs.

Antique Boat Museum serves historians, mariners, and families seeking an immersive waterfront experience. Its combination of curated collections, active restoration, practical training, and community events makes it a trusted destination for freshwater boating heritage in Clayton, New York. The museum's volunteer-driven programs and public events promote preservation, skills training, and community engagement across the Thousand Islands region year-round.