OSS 112 — Fast Track® Powerboat Cruising Course at Power Boat School

Powerboat Courses

Learn Boating Skills on a Live-Aboard Catamaran Motor Yacht

This popular Power Boat School course is available in the British Virgin Islands, at Wickhams Cay in Tortola, where top-notch The Moorings charter company has a huge fleet of powercats you can charter.  In the Fast Track® to Power Cruising course you learn how to safely and competently drive, dock, moor, and anchor a large power boat catamaran with confidence.  In just one week, you and your classmates will gain the skills to happily charter and skipper a 40′-50′ power cat in fabulous cruising grounds all over the world.

Learn Big Power Yacht Skills Where Sea Life Abounds

This photo was taken by an Offshore Power Boat School instructor when under way, teaching the Fast Track® to Power Cruising course to a family planning to purchase a power yacht and enjoy boating together.  Power Catamaran Courses are comprehensive, rewarding, and fun. During your week aboard a comfortable power catamaran, you learn the power boat skills to achieve US Sailing Powerboat Certification and the IPC (International Proficiency Certificate), ready to  charter similar boats all over the world, or helm your own yacht with family and friends.

Why Take the Fast Track® Power Cruising Course at Offshore Sailing School

It’s not uncommon to think commanding a big power boat requires little more than the ability to turn a key. You need to know the Rules of the Road, how to handle a big boat when underway, boating in close quarters, docking, anchoring, picking up moorings, passing or overtaking other boats. Boat systems need constant checking and troubleshooting. Navigation skills and safety for all aboard is synonymous with having a good day on the water.

I found this training to be extremely helpful to fill in the knowledge that I didn’t know I needed. I will feel safer and more competent next time I am aboard any boat in the future.

Zulekha Ludwig – Newport, RI

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Powerboat Courses

Learn on a Twin-Engine Power Catamaran 

Whether you have some power boat experience or not, our OSS 112 – Fast Track® to Power Cruising powerboat catamaran course is a great way to fine tune your boat handling skills. In the British Virgin Islands you learn powerboat handling on a Moorings 46.4 power cat. One of the newest designs in The Moorings charter fleet, this fabulous cruising yacht, under the tutelage of an Offshore Sailing School certified power-cruise instructor, gives you the confidence and skills to enjoy endless days in glorious cruising venues at home or abroad.

The power cruising program was great! Most importantly was the confidence the course and instructor instilled throughout my participation. I’d recommend the Fast Track to Power Cruising course to anyone who questions their5 own skill sets or wants to learn more.

Dave MacDonald – Kingston, Ontario
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Learn to Power Cruise
888-454-7015 ♦ 239-454-1700
Sail@OffshoreSailing.com

British Virgin Islands Power Boat Cruising Lessons

Spend six fabulous days learning in the incomparable cruising grounds of the British Virgin Islands on 46′ twin-engine power cat from The Moorings, the pre-eminent charter company in the world. When you enroll in our Fast Track® to Power Cruising – OSS 112 powerboat training courses, the Start Powerboating Right! textbook is sent in advance to study. Each morning after breakfast and a “classroom session” in the main salon, you get underway and practice boat handling and seamanship drills while power cruising to your next destination.

I would like to express my appreciation for the excellent

instruction provided during our power yacht course in Tortola, BVI.  Folkert Jongkind tailored each session to the students’ needs and worked to their different learning styles. He was patient, courteous, funny, and fun to be with. We had some trepidation about the size of the boat but at the end of the week we were confident and sure in our maneuvers. We can’t wait to return to rent a yacht on our own.

Bill and Karen Duggleby – Herndon, Virginia

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888-454-7015 ♦ 239-454-1700
Sail@OffshoreSailing.com

Learn to Skipper a Power Yacht and Earn Powerboat Cruising Certification

The Fast Track® Power Cruising course gives you US Powerboating Coastal Powerboat Cruising Certification. Using guidelines from the National Safe Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), our comprehensive boat handling courses were developed by the US Sailing National Faculty to fill the need for professional handling of powerboats – from small runabouts to large yachts – on inland and open waters.

Then Get Your International Proficiency Certificate (IPC) for Chartering Overseas

If you plan to charter in Europe or other areas overseas, you may be required to show your certification credentials and an International Proficiency Certificate P. US Sailing, the governing body of sailing in the United States, will issue this certificate for a nominal fee for U.S. citizens who have achieved US Sailing Bareboat Cruising Certification or the US Powerboating Certification mentioned on this page. For more information, view this page on US Sailing and Powerboating’s website.

Six Days of Boating Instruction on a Fabulous Boating Vacation

I completed a week-long boating course in the British Virgin Islands through Offshore Sailing School to become certified to captain a large power catamaran. I launched from The Moorings base and lived on the boat for the week, learning everything, while island hopping with beautiful views, and amazing dinners ashore. Patrick, my instructor, was absolutely fantastic. Can’t wait to go back and take the helm!

Todd Graham – Warrenton, VA

The Greatest Classroom in the World!®

On-board Systems

 

  • Electrical systems
  • Generator operation
  • VHF Operation
  • Marine sanitation devices
  • Fresh water systems
  • Cooking aboard – proper and safe use of stove
  • Emergency procedures

Steering

  • Directed thrust – steering with throttles
  • Rudder
  • Prop walk
  • Handling wind and wave conditions

Anchoring

  • Holding ground and anchors
  • Proper scope
  • Current and wind considerations
  • Tight maneuvering in crowded anchorages

Navigation Rules

  • Safe speed
  • Safe lookout
  • Sound signals and lights
  • Meeting situations
  • Restricted visibility
  • Traffic separation
  • Crossing and overtaking situations
  • Lights – how to identify, when to use
  • Day shapes
  • Rules of the Road
  • Right of way rules for inland and international waters
  • Differences between U.S. and European buoy systems

Docking

  • Crew teamwork
  • Approach in wind and current
  • Tight maneuvering
  • Proper radio contact for slip space
  • Mooring pickup
  • Knots, dock lines, spring lines

Coastal Navigation

  • Reading charts, aids to navigation
  • Tides and currents
  • Plotting a course
  • Determining ETA, time, speed, distance
  • Taking fixes and knowing where you are
  • Electronic navigation – reading and using a Chart Plotter
  • Understanding weather and weather routing

Overboard Recovery

  • Wind and current considerations
  • How to approach
  • Safety and retrieval procedures
  • Use of LifeSling

Electronics and Safety

  • Required safety equipment and best practices
  • Emergency procedures
  • Overboard rescue procedures and use of Chart Plotter

Engines

  • Maintenance
  • Troubleshooting
  • Fueling techniques
  • Safe operation
  • Fluid checks
  • Transmission checks
  • Tail shaft coupling and packing glands
  • Hydraulics
  • Battery management

Prerequisite: No previous boating experience is required

Certifications: US Powerboating Level 1 & 2 Student Certification

Here’s what’s included in your 6-day Fast Track® Power Cruising course package:

  • Five days of instruction aboard a Moorings Power Cat
  • Course textbook and Navigation Rules
  • US Cruising Power Boat Certification testing and certification if tests are passed
  • Overnight test cruise without the instructor aboard Friday afternoon to Saturday morning
  • Breakfasts, lunches, snacks and three dinners while aboard (from Monday lunch to Saturday breakfast)
  • Cruising tax, park fees and damage waiver
  • Moorings fees while instructor is aboard in BVI
  • Logbook
  • Diploma
  • Certification stickers for logbook, sent from US Sailing | US Powerboating after completing course and passing certification test
  • Sunday (arrival night) aboard the boat at The Moorings base in BVI
  • Fuel consumed during course and mini-cruise

Not included:

  • All air and shore travel and transfers (taxis and jitneys are available)
  • Food bought during cruise other than provisions already onboard
  • Beverages (which you will order in advance to suit your tastes)
  • Meals ashore
  • Moorings fees during mini-cruise without instructor
  • Additional hotel nights before or after the course

What our graduates have to say about the Offshore Fast Track to Power Cruise Course courses:

I thought it was fabulous. There should be a course for any person of any age who gets behind the wheel of a power boat. Had I not taken the course, I wouldn’t have had the confidence to be out there. It’s worth the value and I would do it again in a heartbeat. My instructor was fabulous!

Sharon Caprio – Fort Myers, FL

Excellent experience, proud to have completed it with my 25 year old son.

Ray Chaput – Barrie, Ontario

The instructor went to extra lengths to make certain that I had a most positive learning experience.

Dr. Kenneth Teufel – New Braunfels, TX

Money well spent. Would do it again, but I don’t need to! After only 5 days of classroom and power cruising time, I feel confident that I can better handle my boat in a variety of situations.

Harry Belk – Spartanburg, SC

The power cruising program was great! Most importantly was the confidence the course and instructor instilled throughout my participation. I’d recommend the program to anyone who questions their own skill sets.

Dave MacDonald – Kingston, Ontario

Folkert was outstanding! Great instructor, taught us a lot over a relatively short period of time. Always patient and calm which helped build confidence. Would definitely take another course with him. Great experience, learned a lot, built confidence and was exactly what I was looking for.

Tom Shortell – Cold Springs, NY

Outstanding experience. Our instructor was excellent and focused on key points to make everything easy and understandable.

Harry Hink – Fairfax, VA

Powerboat Courses

Comprehensive Powerboat Cruising Course for All Skill Levels

Offshore Sailing School offers a powerboat cruising course designed for beginners and experienced boaters looking to enhance their skills. Whether you are new to powerboating or advancing to higher-level training, our structured curriculum provides hands-on instruction in boat handling, navigation, safety procedures, and docking techniques.

With professional instructors and high-performance training vessels, our powerboating lessons ensure that you gain practical experience in real-world conditions. Whether you’re pursuing powerboating certifications or preparing for offshore powerboating, our courses equip you with the skills needed to operate a powerboat safely and efficiently.

Powerboat Courses

Powerboating Courses for Beginners and Experienced Boaters

Offshore Sailing School provides a range of powerboating lessons tailored to different experience levels:

  • Level 1 Powerboat Course: This basic powerboat cruising course is perfect for beginners, covering essential safety procedures, boat handling, and navigation fundamentals.
  • Powerboat Level 1 Online Course: A theory-based introduction to what is powerboating, available for students looking to learn basic concepts before hands-on training.
  • Powerboat 2 Course (Powerboat Level 2 Course): Designed for those ready to take their skills further, this course covers advanced maneuvering, high-speed handling, and docking in various conditions.
  • Advanced Powerboat Course: This training is ideal for those interested in offshore powerboating, night navigation, and handling powerboats in challenging conditions.
  • Level 1 and 2 Powerboat Course: A combination course that progresses students from beginner to advanced levels with structured, hands-on instruction.

Each powerboat course provides practical training, ensuring students gain confidence and competence on the water.

Powerboat Certification and Certification Outcomes

Obtaining a powerboat certification from Offshore Sailing School qualifies boaters for safe operation in coastal waters, inland lakes, and offshore environments. Our certification outcomes prepare students to:

  • Safely operate a powered cruising vessel with adequate equipment.
  • Manage engine controls, fuel systems, and emergency protocols.
  • Navigate unfamiliar waters with advanced chart reading and GPS use.
  • Handle difficult conditions, including heavy weather and adverse weather conditions.
  • Ensure crew coordination for effective teamwork and onboard communication.

Upon completion of our powerboat training courses, students gain the skills and confidence needed for independent boating, yacht charters, and professional maritime opportunities.

Training in Real-World Conditions with Experienced Instructors

Our water powerboat training includes on-the-water instruction in moderate conditions, rough conditions, and difficult conditions to prepare boaters for a variety of scenarios. Unlike basic classroom learning, our courses emphasize:

  • Hands-on experience in boat systems and emergency procedures.
  • Practical navigation in coastal waters and unfamiliar waters.
  • Real-time crew coordination and leadership skills.
  • Training for experienced powerboaters looking to refine their expertise.

By focusing on powerboat training courses that simulate real-world challenges, students develop the ability to make critical decisions, operate boats safely, and manage adverse weather conditions with confidence.

Powerboat Training for Confident Docking and Maneuvering

Docking and maneuvering are critical skills for safe powerboating, especially in unfamiliar waters or adverse weather conditions. Offshore Sailing School offers specialized training to help students master:

  • Close-quarters maneuvering in marinas, docks, and tight spaces.
  • Handling in moderate wind and rough conditions, ensuring precise control.
  • Crew coordination for docking, anchoring, and secure mooring.
  • Throttle and engine controls for speed management and quick reactions.

With real-world simulations, our powerboating lessons provide hands-on training to develop boat handling skills for docking in various environments, from coastal waters to busy harbors.

Safety and Emergency Procedures for Powerboaters

Understanding emergency protocols is essential for both new and experienced boat operators. Our powerboat training courses include:

  • Emergency engine controls and troubleshooting boat systems failures.
  • Heavy weather preparedness, including storm navigation and recovery techniques.
  • Man-overboard procedures and crew rescue coordination.
  • Adequate equipment checks, ensuring the vessel is prepared for any situation.

By integrating these safety drills into every powerboat course, we prepare students to confidently handle difficult conditions while ensuring the safety of their passengers and crew.

Why Offshore Sailing School for Powerboating Lessons?

With decades of experience, Offshore Sailing School offers structured powerboat training courses that emphasize hands-on learning, professional instruction, and real-world application. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced boat operator, our programs provide:

  • A progressive learning approach based on level of experience.
  • A focus on adequate equipment, safety, and certification outcomes.
  • Access to well-maintained powered cruising vessels for realistic training.
  • Expert coaching on boat handling skills, engine controls, and maneuvering in difficult conditions.

If you’re ready to earn your powerboat certification and enhance your boating experience, Offshore Sailing School provides the tools and training needed to become a confident and capable powerboater.

Enroll in a Powerboat Cruising Course Today

Start your journey toward mastering powerboating with Offshore Sailing School. Whether you’re pursuing a basic powerboat cruising course, an advanced powerboat course, or preparing for coastal waters and offshore powerboating, we provide the highest standard of powerboat training courses. Enroll today and take the first step toward safe, skillful, and confident powerboat operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a powerboat cruising course, and who should take it?

A powerboat cruising course is designed to teach essential boat handling skills, safety procedures, and navigation techniques for operating a powered cruising vessel. This course is ideal for beginners looking to gain a boating experience, as well as experienced boat operators seeking to refine their skills in coastal waters, moderate conditions, and even adverse weather conditions.

What certifications can I earn from Offshore Sailing School’s powerboat training courses?

Students who complete our powerboating lessons can earn recognized powerboat certifications, including the Powerboating Basic Powerboat & Cruising Certification. We offer certification options for beginners through the level 1 powerboat course, as well as advanced qualifications such as the powerboat level 2 course and advanced powerboat course.

What will I learn in a powerboat course?

Our powerboat training courses cover a range of topics, including:

  • Boat systems operation and maintenance.
  • Engine controls and troubleshooting.
  • Crew coordination for docking, anchoring, and emergency situations.
  • Handling a powered cruising vessel in unfamiliar waters and difficult conditions.
  • Navigating coastal waters using GPS, charts, and onboard instruments.

Students gain practical experience in maneuvering a powerboat in moderate wind, heavy weather, and rough conditions, ensuring confidence in real-world scenarios.

What is the difference between the Powerboat Level 1 and Powerboat Level 2 courses?

The level 1 powerboat course is an entry-level program that introduces students to basic powerboat cruising course concepts, including safety, docking, and maneuvering in moderate conditions. The powerboat 2 course (level 2 powerboat course) builds upon these foundations, covering advanced navigation, offshore handling, and emergency response skills for experienced powerboaters.

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