i would like to learn how to adchive my captains lisence any help would be gratefule planning on getting a 40 to 45ft boat and maybe cruise to the islands in 2years thanks in advance

[Tammies_Compramise]

I am in the same boat, when I was at the Dallas boat show I asked the same question, and was directed to the US Coast Guard. I havent fallowed up yet but that seems like a good start.

Not sure of location, but if in FL check out http://www.adamsmarine.com. Haven't used them yet, but plan to soon. Think the price was under $400 for 9 evening classes + a weekend. You don't have to test with the Coast Guard.

Just to clarify, you do have to take a CG test, just not at a CG office.

Um, I hate to be critical....but I am pretty sure there is a written part on the exam to get your "lisence." ;-)

Look in the back of any boating magazine and you'll find ads for several Captain's License schools. They're all good and most GUARANTEE that you'll pass the test. Remember, that you need documented time on the water in the type of vessel you wish to be licensed to run in order to get such a license.

I need a captains lisence too, I have been boating keepers all of my life. I was a pro mate in Atlantic City for four years. I now live in FLA mostly fish out of palm beach(Lake Worth) inlet. Big baits big fish, is it true? Depends on what you think big baits are. If you realy need to know how gig your'e bait should be open the stomach of your'e target. I Love big baits, I use small baits and lures to catch my baits, and they catch big fish. I have also learned a long time ago that a 16 inch fish like a bluefish or tuna or wahoo or dolphin or mackeral will EAT the same size species or any other without thought.

I took the Seaschool classes and they were terrific and even assisted with the exam, paperwork, everything. I have an OUPV now and I will use them again soon for the masters exam.

Sea School is tops! Reasonable price, good instructors and excellent results. I passed the exam on the first try. Give them a call at 727-577-3992 to find out when the course is offered in your area.

[dave]

Ther's a great book "get your captain's
license" by Charlie Wing. Available @
BoatUS or West Marine. It has Thousands of questions taken directly from USCG exams (and the answers) also
all of the requirements. Time on the water, physical (including drug testing), where the exams are given.
A really good reference book & overview to get you on the right track.
I think once you know all that, then a
course like Seaschool or some of the others out there can do the prep work.
Good Luck!