Water Activities: Maine Boating Academy's Open Water Course
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Overview
Boost your boating skills with Maine Boating Academy’s hands-on open water course. Led by licensed captains, this 3-hour training in Yarmouth offers practical techniques for confident navigation and safety on Maine’s rugged waters.
Advanced Course: Open Water
Improve Your Boating Skills • 3 Hours
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About This Adventure
Enhance your boating skills with a hands-on, 3-hour training session aboard a 24' Sea Fox 248 Avenger at Yarmouth Boat Yard. Led by licensed U.S. Coast Guard Captains, you'll master essential techniques for navigating open waters, including weather assessment, emergency procedures, and boat operation in challenging conditions.
Improve your boating skills!
Duration
3 Hours
About
Receive hands-on boating instruction aboard our training vessel at Yarmouth Boat Yard.
Taking your powerboat on an excursion beyond the protection of islands and the shoreline requires another level of skill and knowledge. Knowing how to navigate and handle a boat in wind and swells will make your trip safer and much more enjoyable. During this 3-hour training, our licensed and insured U.S. Coast Guard Captains will cover on the water topics to help you gain the skills you need to be a competent boater in open water.
During this 3-hour powerboat instruction course, our fully insured and licensed U.S. Coast Guard Captains will cover the following on the water topics:
- Weather and float plan
- Emergency procedures
- Pre-departure checklist
- Electronic navigation
- Trimming
- Boat operation in wind and swells
- Anchoring
- Person in the water recovery
More Info
Training will take place at Yarmouth Boat Yard on our training vessel, a 24' Sea Fox 248 Avenger powerboat.
Adventure Tips
Arrive early and dress for the weather
Prepare for changing coastal conditions by dressing in layers and arriving at least 15 minutes early.
Bring a waterproof bag for essentials
Secure your phone, documents, and any personal items in waterproof containers.
Listen carefully to safety briefings
Pay close attention to all instructions to maximize your learning and safety.
Practice emergency procedures actively
Engage fully in emergency drills to ensure confidence in real situations.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seals
- Bald Eagles
History
Yarmouth’s maritime history dates back to the 1600s and has long been a hub for shipbuilding and navigation.
Conservation
Participants learn about Maine’s coastal ecosystems, emphasizing responsible boating to protect local wildlife and water quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Rain gear and layers
Protect yourself from unpredictable coastal weather with layered clothing and waterproof gear.
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Sunscreen and sunglasses
Shield yourself from the sun’s glare reflected off the water during warm weather sessions.
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Waterproof bag
Keep your valuables dry during the hands-on training.
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Comfortable, non-slip shoes
Ensure safe movement on the boat and dock with grip-friendly footwear.
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