Course 1
Powerboating Fundamentals – Complete Course
Single Engine | Hands-On Instruction | 5-Hour Course
$495 per person
A comprehensive, on-the-water training experience that combines the core elements of the National SafeBoating Council curriculum into one efficient, hands-on session.
This course is designed to take a student from basic understanding to confidentoperation—all in a single day.
What You’ll Learn
Safety & Pre-Departure
- Vessel checks and readiness
- Required safety equipment
- Launching and departure preparation
Basic Navigation & Rules of the Road
- Aids to navigation (markers, buoys, channels)
- Right-of-way rules
- Situational awareness and decision-making
Boat Handling & Control
- Centering the wheel and steering control
- Smooth shifting and throttle management
- Controlled stopping techniques
- Low-speed maneuvering
Close Quarters & Docking
- Docking techniques in real conditions
- Wind and current control
- Tight space maneuvering
- Station holding and positioning
Anchoring & Real-World Operation
- Anchoring fundamentals
- Holding position
- Practical, scenario-based instruction
Course Information
Course Details
- Conducted aboard our vessel in real-world conditions
- Led by Capt. Brett — USCG Licensed Captain & NSBC Certified Instructor
- Maximum of 4 students
- Students ages 12+ welcome
Who This Is For
- First-time boaters
- New boat owners
- Individuals looking for a complete, hands-on foundation
- Anyone who wants to skip multiple courses and learn everything in one session
Important Notes
- Based on the National Safe Boating Council curriculum (Modules 1–3)
- Designed as a complete foundational course before moving into private instruction
- Small group format ensures hands-on participation for every student
- Weather Dependent
Course 2
Captain Training & Insurance Readiness
Today’s marine insurance market is changing rapidly — especially for owners operating larger, faster, and more sophisticated vessels. As insurance carriers continue tightening underwriting standards, many boat owners are now being required to complete professional captain training and documented on-water instruction before coverage is approved.
At The Marine Minute, we believe education, preparation, and safe boating practices make better captains and safer waterways.
Why Insurance Companies Are Requiring Training
Modern boats equipped with triple, quad, or quint outboard engines deliver incredible performance, but they also require advanced operational knowledge and experience. Many marine insurance carriers now evaluate:
- Prior boating experience
- Vessel size and horsepower
- Offshore operating experience
- Multi-engine handling proficiency
- Docking and maneuvering skills
- Navigation and safety knowledge
Owners moving into larger or high-performance vessels may be required to complete:
- On-water captain training
- USCG-approved boating safety courses
- Professional captain checkouts
- Documented operating hours
- Sea trials and handling evaluations
Professional Captain Training Matters
Hands-on instruction with a qualified USCG-licensed captain helps owners:
- Build confidence at the helm
- Improve docking and maneuvering skills
- Understand vessel systems and safety procedures
- Operate safely in changing weather and sea conditions
- Meet insurance underwriting requirements
Most importantly, proper training helps reduce accidents, protect passengers, and improve overall boating safety.
Recommended Boating Safety Courses
Many insurance companies recognize training programs offered through:
- U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
- America’s Boating Club / United States Power Squadrons
- Certified maritime training organizations
- Professional licensed captains
Completing these programs may also help reduce insurance premiums and improve insurability.
The Marine Minute Commitment
The Marine Minute supports responsible boating, ongoing education, and professional seamanship. Whether you are purchasing your first center console or stepping into a high-performance offshore vessel, proper training is one of the best investments you can make.
Safe boating starts with knowledge, preparation, and respect for the water.
Hire a Captain for the Day
With Capt. Brett – National Safe Boating Council Certified Instructor
A comprehensive, hands-on training experience designed to give you real-world confidence at the helm.
This is not a classroom course. This is on-the-water, personalized instruction combining essential boating skills, safety, navigation, and vessel operation into one immersive session.
Whether you’re a new boat owner or looking to sharpen your skills, this session is tailored entirely to you and your vessel.
What’s Included
- Vessel orientation and systems overview
- Safety procedures and pre-departure checks
- Basic navigation and rules of the road
- Boat handling and control
- Docking and close-quarters maneuvering
- Anchoring and station holding
- Real-world, scenario-based instruction
Who This Is For
- New boat owners
- Boaters transitioning to a new vessel
- Individuals looking to build confidence quickly
- Anyone who wants hands-on, practical instruction in real conditions
Session Details
- Minimum 4.5-hour session
- Conducted aboard your vessel
- Fully customized to your experience level and goals
- Up to 2 participants included (additional upon request)
Pricing (Based on Vessel Size)
- Vessels 30’ and Under: $950
- Vessels 31’ – 40’: $1,000
- Vessels 41’ – 60’: $1,050
Important Notes
- Additional time may be scheduled based on availability
- Travel outside the immediate area may incur an additional fee
- Vessel owner may be required to list Capt. Brett with insurance carrier
- Weather Dependent
Cancellation, Weather, & Payment Policy
A non-refundable deposit of $250 is required to secure your session date. Payment can be made to Capt. Brett via Venmo at @brett-sause.
Cancellations made by the client for any reason are non-refundable, including cancellations within 7 days of the scheduled session and failure to appear.
If a session must be postponed due to weather or safety concerns, you will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.
In the event Capt. Brett needs to cancel or reschedule for reasons unrelated to weather or safety, a full refund or an alternative date will be offered.
Refunds are limited to the cost of the session only. Any additional expenses (travel, lodging, etc.) are the responsibility of the client.