How do I obtain a captian's license for boating?

Question

Im wondering how to obtain a captian's license for commercial boating. ie. Tourism on Minnesota Lakes - not an oceanliner.

Answer 1

You need to be able to document 365 days experience over a 5 year period. 2 hours counts as a day. Whatever size boat you operate will dictate the tonnage of the license. You will have to sit for a test, and depending on the size vessel or the ammount of passengers you could get a "6 pack" which allows you to run an uninspected boat with 6 or less passengers, or a Masters license for inland waters that is inspected and carries as many passengers as it is rated for. There are probably schools in your area that will teach you and give the test, you just need the time on the water.

Answer 2

Check around in the yellow pages for places like SeaSchool or any other school that will help get your captain's license...

It is not too difficult when you get your license through these types of schools, they basically teach you only what you need to pass the test.  if you go to the Coast Guard to test they have a database of 3000+ questions that they can pull your 50 question test from.  So do NOT go that route.

Go to an independent school where you can test and avoid the coast guard at all costs!

Good luck and if you have any more questions don't hesitate to ask, I've got my 100T USCG and 200T European... Trust me ;)

Answer 3

Study and take the Coast Guard exam....not real easy.

Answer 4

contact the Bilini Bottom Driving School , in care of  Mrs. Puff