This course qualifies students for a Coast Guard license to operate vessels carrying up to six passengers for hire (OUPV). The fee includes access to the Blended OUPV Course using Captain School Key West’s Learning Management System, charts, navigation tools, and the USCG-approved and accepted test. *Online sessions start on September 18, 2024, and run through November 8, 2024. Students’ progress will be monitored online by the instructor, and students will have assignments to complete. During this time, there will be online mentoring and coaching using Zoom, on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. **Once online requirements are complete, 16 hours of required in-person classroom sessions will be required, followed by U.S. Coast Guard-approved and required examinations, all in Maine. The in-person sessions will run from Merrymeeting Adult Ed in Topsham.

Learn the basics of coastal navigation using local charts, parallel ruler, and dividers. Learn what the symbols mean, how to determine safe and dangerous routes, create courses, learn rules of the “road”, what aids to navigation look like and do, plan for emergencies and more. For kayakers, sailors, powerboaters, and future Registered Maine Guides. Students will need access to either a Casco Bay Chart or Penobscot Bay Chart, parallel ruler and dividers. This is a Zoom class.

The most comprehensive in-person boating course available, America’s Boating Course, gives you the skills you need to enjoy your time on the water and boat with confidence. Our boater safety class meets most states’ certification requirements. Taking a boating class reduces your risk of accidents and injuries, saves you money on boat insurance, and qualifies you for a state boat license or operator certificate in most states. Our in-person boating course includes a comprehensive introduction to boating, covering boat types, boat engines, boat selection, and more. You’ll learn about boating laws and regulations as well as boat registration and licensing. Get in-depth knowledge of boating safety equipment, and learn how to become a safe boater by learning the dos and don’ts of boater safety. Gain practical knowledge of navigation, rules of the road, handling emergencies and mechanical problems on the water, the basics of towing and trailering, important information for hunters, anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and so much more. Four sessions with a NASBLA approved examination. The cost for couples sharing materials is $95. Please call Merrymeeting Adult Education for the couples discount. No other discounts. ***Class will meet on the following Tuesdays & Thursdays: 10/15, 10/17, 10/22, 10/24, 10/29 (exam day). This program is presented by U.S. Power Squadron.