Do I have to take a Power Squadron course?

[EdS]

I am considering buying a Ranger tug but not if I have to attend a lengthy Power Squadron course (or other course of instruction) to operate it (in the Puget Sound area, for example).

Starting in 1977 we chartered our first boat (26' in length) from ABC Charters in Anacortes, Washington and for the next six years we chartered a different boat from them each summer until we had progressed upwards in size to a 42' boat the last year. We cruised for a week each year with no bad incidences as far north as Campbell River, Vancouver Island, Canada. We also had our own boats, the largest being a 20' Bayliner, and with it we cruised all over Oregon and Washington but also including the Campbell River area.

Is there a "grandfather" provision for people such as me so that I don't have to take a Power Squadron course?

I suspect that with some brushing up I could pass any required test as I studied so extensively before going on our first charter boat excursion.

I thank you for your help.
Ed

 

[Bruce Moore]

The is no requirement to complete USPS or USCGA classes in Washington. If you were born after December 31, 1954 you are required to have a Washington State Boater Education Card.

Cheers,

Bruce

 

[EdS]

Thank you.

I thought I had read that ABC Charters required a certificate of competency and that is what prompted me to ask the question. If they do I can understand why. However, back in 1977-1984, they did not require one.

Certainly, if I should take up cruising again I'd definitely voluntarily refresh myself on safe and legal operation of the boat.

So, since I was born before 1954, it seems as though, after updating my knowledge, I can buy the Ranger Tug and be off on my way. But, what about operating the boat in Canada? Am I good to go there, too?

Again, thanks.
Ed

 

[baz]

Ed: With regards to Canadian waters there's no issue as far as I know. Just be prepared to visit a Canadian customs dock of your choice after you first enter the Canadian waters... and of course, the USA customs dock when you return from Canadian waters.

 

[EdS]

Bruce and Baz, thanks to you both.

After writing my initial post I realized I should have asked about requirements for Washington, Canada and Oregon.

So, now, shamefacedly, I'll ask my final question on the subject which is do I have to be certified as knowledgeable in Oregon waters? We live in Beaverton, Oregon and so the boat will be licensed and registered in Oregon.
Ed

 

[Bruce Moore]

Bruce and Baz, thanks to you both.

After writing my initial post I realized I should have asked about requirements for Washington, Canada and Oregon.

So, now, shamefacedly, I'll ask my final question on the subject which is do I have to be certified as knowledgeable in Oregon waters? We live in Beaverton, Oregon and so the boat will be licensed and registered in Oregon.
Ed

It appears Oregon requires a Boater Education Card. Info here.

 

[EdS]

That was all very helpful.

Thank you very much
Ed

 

[buoyohbuoy]

Ed,

It is my understanding that US boaters only require some proof of pleasure craft operating competency if they are operating their boats in Canadian waters for more than 45 consecutive days. Proof of competency would be your home state's Operator's Card (if applicable), some recognized boating safety course certificate or some similar official document. If boating in Canada less than 45 consecutive days no proof of competency is required.