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AYC Power Cruising Classes

Learn the skills to take the helm of your own bareboat.

Anacortes Yacht Charters offers a full range of instruction to put you at the helm of your own bareboat – even if you are just getting started.

Power Cruising: Twin Engine

This training program is offered on a 32′ to 40′ twin engine power boat. A Home Study package is sent in advance of the class for your preparation. The package includes a textbook, a sample chart with nautical symbols and abbreviations, a tide table and an anchoring primer. This 3-day / 2-night class provides “on the water” training. Instruction begins at 1pm Friday afternoon with a complete review of terms and concepts. It progresses to “hands on” skill building while focusing on close quarter maneuvering, docking, anchoring, and practical navigation. Expect intensive training as our floating classroom cruises the islands. Your new skills and knowledge will provide you with sufficient experience to safely and comfortably skipper a similar vessel.

Power Cruising: Single Engine

This program includes the same training as Introduction to Power Cruising, but is offered on a 32′-40′ single engine power boat. Great class for those transitioning from sail to power.

Power Cruising: Skipper and 1st Mate

Work as a team to master boat handling, docking, anchoring, mooring and practical navigation in this 3-day class taught on 32′ to 40′ vessels. In addition, emphasis will be placed on procedures for the First Mate to follow in case of an emergency situation, to include VHF radio usage, Coast Guard radio protocol, and man-overboard procedures.

Power Cruising: Advanced

This course includes the same valuable training as our Power Cruising: Twin Engine course while also introducing the student to basic operation of modern navigational aids and auxiliary power sources. Additional time is also spent on crew training and dock maneuvering. Training is offered on 47′ to 53′ power yachts. Previous power boat experience is required.

Class Details

The yacht serves as both the training platform and overnight accommodations. Linen or sleeping bags and towels are included. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are provided. Dinners are on your own. Students should plan to bring comfortable clothing, including suitable deck shoes and a waterproof jacket.

Group Class Schedule

Bring a group of 3 or more students and we will make every effort to schedule class dates to meet your needs. Contact one of our friendly Charter Agents for details.

Graduates Enjoy Special Benefits

After you have completed any of our Power Yachting Courses or ASA Classes, you will immediately become a member of our Captain’s Club and gain special discounts on AYC charters as well as other great benefits.

Cancellation Policy

We will be unable to offer refunds for any reason if cancellations occur within 45 days prior to the class. For cancellations outside 45 days, 50% of the total amount will be forfeited.

Note

AYC reserves the right to cancel or change a class due to minimum enrollment requirements.

Prices subject to change without notice.

Course Fees

Power Cruising: Twin Engine – $1,700 per person
Power Cruising: Single Engine – $1,700 per person
Power Cruising: Skipper and 1st Mate – $1,700 per person
Power Cruising: Advanced – $1,950 per person

2024 Course Schedule

All Power Cruising courses are 3-days and 2-nights and are scheduled from 1pm Friday to 4pm Sunday. Each course has a maximum of 4 participants.

The following dates are reserved for classes in 2024. The specific class taught during each 3-day session is determined in collaboration with participants.

Month Dates
April 12-14, 19-21, 26-28
May 3-5, 10-12, 17-19, 24-26, 31-Jun2
June 7-9, 14-16
Sept 20-22, 27-29
Oct 4-6, 11-13

Course Requirements

Powerboat Handling Illustrated by Bob Sweet $30 + S&H