If you’re an old sea dog looking to learn new tricks or haven’t been on the water but wonder what it would be like to set sail across a harbor or step behind the wheel of a power boat, you can climb aboard and learn from the pros during the Newport International Boat Show this fall.
Show organizers are teaming up with Newport-based Confident Captain/Ocean Pros to offer 90 minute to three-hour At the Helm courses that range from the basics to advanced boat handling and electronic navigation skills. Prices range accordingly, from $75 to $135.
There are five powerboat and four sailing courses that will be offered during the show that runs Sept. 11-14. The power curriculum includes 90-minute courses titled Docking and Maneuvering, Navigation and Electronics, Emergencies Underway, and Advanced Docking and Maneuvering. There will also be a three-hour course, Becoming a Power Boater that includes instruction in topics like navigation, rules of the road, boating laws, on board systems and more.
For sailors, Managing a Sailboat Under Power in Tight Spaces is a two-hour course; three-hour courses include Sailing Fundamentals, Intermediate Sailing Skills and Women Teaching Women. All courses are taught by licensed captains with American Sailing Association certificates. For information and to register (classes are expected to fill quickly) visit the show’s website.
