Captain's training question.

[Atagrob]

The internet has left me confused. I am interested in chartering a Ranger Tug in the San Juan's as a first step to possible ownership. Thinking late summer 2025.

I have some limited boating experience on sail boats and small power boats.

Is there a universally accept training program? How does someone like me get the education and experience to be safe and competent to cruise the San Juan`s?

Did you take a training course that you did or didn't like?

Thanks for any guidance in advance!

 

[watson1987]

I would call the charter company and see what their requirements are. I suspect they are all different.

 

[SKing]

Some of them offer a captain to get you familiar with the boat. If you read about the area, listen to the training, and go out when the weather is predicting light winds and no fog, you will be just fine. The Garmin maps are easy to understand and your inexperience will mostly show up approaching docks or anchoring. Just don't be in a hurry or try to boat on a schedule and wear a life vest.

 

[Maggie Anne]

Anacortes Yacht Charters has Ranger Tugs for rent and offers AYC power boat training courses.

 

[NewMoon]

Hi Atagrob,

You might find my book "Cruising in a Big Way" helpful in getting you started. It's available on Amazon, where you can read a sample.

 

[Jcat2010]

US Power Squadron, or USCG Auxiliary. Both offer great training, in progressive stages.

 

[CarrieIF]

Anacortes Yacht Charters has Ranger Tugs for rent and offers AYC power boat training courses.

We took the AYC power boat trailing class last April And took delivery of our RT29S in early June. We had no prior boating experience. The AYC power boat class was very good. The other couple with is in board we’re planning to charter one of AYC’s Ranger Tugs later that year .

 

[Paddlegirldeb]

The internet has left me confused. I am interested in chartering a Ranger Tug in the San Juan's as a first step to possible ownership. Thinking late summer 2025.

I have some limited boating experience on sail boats and small power boats.

Is there a universally accept training program? How does someone like me get the education and experience to be safe and competent to cruise the San Juan`s?

Did you take a training course that you did or didn't like?

Thanks for any guidance in advance!

We’ve been a member of the Freedom Boat Club in the Puget Aound for 4 years as they have a few Ranger Tugs. They also offer training as part of your membership. You may want to consider a membership before buying.