POWERBOAT TRAINING – 3 DAYS
Power Training with NW Explorations – Enroll Today!
New to boating? Start here.
Learn the skills and build the confidence to captain your own vessel on a future charter—all while exploring the breathtaking San Juan Islands. This three-day powerboat course is designed to make boating accessible, even if you have little or no experience at the helm.
Through practical, hands-on instruction, you’ll learn essential boat-handling, docking, navigation, and cruising skills in a relaxed, supportive environment. By the end of the course, you’ll be better prepared to take the helm of a chartered vessel and begin creating adventures of your own.
Whether you’re completely new to boating or looking for a confidence-building refresher, this is your place to begin.
2027 Course Dates
Training runs Saturday–Monday, with Friday evening preboarding.
- 4/3 – 4/5 preboard 4/2
- 4/10 – 4/12 preboard 4/9
- 4/17 – 4/19 preboard 4/16
- 4/24 – 4/26 preboard 4/23
- 5/1 – 5/3 preboard 4/30
- 5/8 – 5/10 preboard 5/7
- 5/15 – 5/17 preboard 5/14
- 5/22 – 5/24 preboard 5/21
- 5/29 – 5/31 preboard 5/28
3-Day Powerboat Training Course
Learn. Explore. Connect.
Ideal for individuals, couples, or small groups, our immersive training is led by expert instructors who are not only highly experienced but also passionate about helping you succeed.
What You’ll Learn
• Confident docking techniques
• Twin-engine maneuvering
• Mooring and anchoring fundamentals
• Coastal navigation and route planning
• Emergency procedures & VHF radio use
• Diesel engine troubleshooting
• Onboard power and systems management
Between lessons, enjoy downtime at scenic anchorages or wander through charming island marinas filled with local shops and waterfront dining. Each night, you’ll retreat to your cozy cabin onboard your training vessel—your floating classroom and home away from home.
Course Schedule
Your weekend adventure begins Friday at 5 PM with a welcome happy hour onboard. After settling into your cabin, get to know your instructor and fellow students.
• Saturday morning: Hands-on training begins at 8 AM.
• Saturday night: Drop anchor in a picturesque cove.
• Sunday night: Dock at a local island marina.
• Monday afternoon: Return to Bellingham around 2 PM, full of new skills and confidence at the helm.
Pricing
$1995/person
Includes:
✔ Lodging aboard training vessel
✔ Course materials & instruction
✔ All moorage fees
✔ 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner
✔ Certificate of completion
Accommodations are in shared, double-occupancy cabins (either with a partner or same-gender student) and a shared head. Schedule may vary slightly depending on vessel availability.
Ready to take the helm?
Join us for a weekend of learning, laughter, and life on the water.
Cancellation & Rebooking Policy
Full payment is due at the time of registration. All balances due at time of reservation. Cancellation policy: If you cancel your reservation 45 or more days before the start of your course, your reservation will be refunded in full less $100 handling fee. If you cancel within 45 days of the start of your course, you will forfeit your tuition. Please note that each class must have a minimum of four students registered. If we need to cancel you will receive a full refund or may choose to reschedule your class to another time. We highly recommend that you purchase medical and cancellation insurance for your peace of mind. Begin with your favorite travel agent.