RECREATIONAL BOATING COURSES & PROGRAMS

In-Command Seamanship Training is your comprehensive training partner that provides a wide range of classroom and on the water instruction.  Regardless of your prior experience, we have the options for you!

In-Command Captain Master OUPV Course Classroom

New to Boating? As certified US Powerboating instructors, we have the classroom curriculum approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) that will qualify you for a Rhode Island state license.

Want to improve your skills? Our team has extensive experience with boat handling with single screw, twin screw and jet drive/joystick propulsion systems; so we can help you improve your skills on virtually any kind of powerboat on the water. We can teach you on either one of our boats or yours.  Our hands-on skill development will give you the confidence you need to take your friends and family out on the Bay with confidence.

Traditional Programs & Courses


US Powerboating – Start Powerboating Right!

This 16-hour combined classroom and practical on-the-water course is for anyone who wants to learn how to safely operate a small motorboat and improve their boat handling skills. No previous experience is required! 

Note: US Sailing Membership is not required to participate in a Safe Powerboat Handling course.

BoatU.S. – On-Water Training

BoatUS Foundation and In-Command have partnered to offer an introductory On-Water Training program which is a fun and affordable way gain exposure to boating. The three hour modules for beginners help you experience how much fun being out on the water can be and how you can begin to advance your boat handling skills. Reservations are booked through BoatUS website, www.boatus.org/on-water.

Women In-Command

Women In-Command brings together like-minded women in a fun and supportive environment designed to encourage students to build confidence and practice new skills through a combination of classroom and on-the-water training in a relaxed environment with female instructors. Gain knowledge and experience to confidently take the wheel. Rather not? Got it… So, let’s help you become an active, integral crew member so you can participate like a seasoned boater on your boat, or as a guest on someone else’s.

Powerboat Cruising

This 5-day Cruising Course includes – Basic Powerboating Cruising, Inshore Powerboat Cruising and Night Operations Endorsement, and combines classroom and on-the-water skill testing which will be conducted on a Sabre 36 Express, which meets and exceeds the minimum length of boat required for certification. Upon completion of these Basic, Inshore Powerboat Cruising and Night Ops courses qualifies the student to apply for their International Proficiency Certificate (IPC) through US Sailing / Powerboating.

Rhode Island DEM – State Boating License Programs

  • RI DEM – Boater Safety ClassThis one (1) day beginner boating class, which is classroom only, will prepare you to take the Rhode Island Boating Exam, which will be administered at the end of the class. We will submit your test results to the state and your license will be mailed directly to your home.
  • Rhode Island Boating License – Proctored ExamYou can study online using the state-approved online course found at www.boat-ed.com which will then require you to pass a proctored exam, offered at In-Command Seamanship Training. In-Command includes a review of all study material to ensure the best results on your test. We will submit all your paperwork to the state and they will send your license directly to your home. Please contact us at info@incommandri.com or 1-401-4SAFETY to schedule an exam.

Navigation 101 – Basic Navigation and Chart Plotting

This course is designed for boaters of all skill levels.  Learn to read and use a chart properly, learn to use the navigation tools and gain the ability to plot a course to your favorite destination(s).  Learn how much time it will take to your destination, or how far away it is so can enjoy the beautiful sights along our beautiful coastline and visit our “Island Park” system safely and with confidence.

ICST – Tailored Training Options

Buying a new boat is a big investment that will bring years of fun out on the water for you, your family and friends!  It also brings with it a lot of responsibility for the safety of everyone on board as well as the other boaters around you.

In-Command Seamanship Training (ICST) designs custom training programs for new boat buyers as well as owners who are stepping up to a larger vessel. Frequently, insurance companies require a formal training program with a Captain and a NASBLA-approved course in order to secure insurance.  ICST will build the program you need so you will enjoy many years aboard your new boat! 

on the water training

Improve your boat handling skills with a private one-on-one training session on one of our powerboats or sailboats to help you build your confidence and skill so you can enjoy boating with friends and family.

Improve your boat handling skills with a private one-on-one training session on your powerboat or sailboat to help you build your confidence and skill so you can enjoy boating with friends and family.