Boater Safety

Seamanship Training: What It Really Means and Why It Matters on the Water

Seamanship Training is more than learning how to operate a boat.  It’s the foundation of safe, confident, and responsible boating—built on awareness, judgment, and control. While many people associate seamanship with basic boat handling, true Seamanship Training teaches how to think on the water, not just how to move a vessel from point A to point B. At its core, seamanship can be broken down into three essential elements: Sea · Man · Ship This framework explains what Seamanship Training…

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Rhode Island Boating Requirements 2026: What You Need to Know Before You Hit the Water

If you’re ready to explore Narragansett Bay or rent a boat from Wickford Boat Rentals, understanding Rhode Island’s boating requirements is essential. Whether you’re new to boating or updating credentials, In-Command Seamanship Training can help ensure you comply with state law and gain confidence behind the wheel. Who Needs a Boating Safety Certificate in Rhode Island? Born on or after January 1, 1986: You must complete a state-approved boating safety education course to operate a motorized vessel over 10 horsepower.…

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Boating Under the Influence in Rhode Island: What You Need to Know About Seated Sobriety Testing and Enforcement

At In-Command Seamanship Training and Wickford Boat Rentals, boating safety is at the heart of everything we do. One of the most pressing issues on Narragansett Bay and beyond is Boating Under the Influence in Rhode Island. Each summer, local waterways are filled with recreational boaters, and with increased activity comes the need for greater awareness and responsibility.

Operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a serious threat to everyone on the water. In Rhode Island, it’s illegal to operate a boat with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, aligning with the state’s DUI laws for motor vehicles.

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