Which Training Path Is Right for You?
Learn the key differences between earning your Captain’s License and gaining hands-on boating confidence.
The Captain School - Professional USCG Training
For professional mariners and those seeking a U.S. Coast Guard license.
The Captain School offers USCG-approved licensing courses including OUPV/6-Pack and Master 100-ton licenses. These programs are designed for those pursuing a career or side business as a professional captain. Taught by Captain Jack Sanzalone, a USCG Licensed Master and past president of the Maritime Education Standards Council, this training prepares you to pass official exams and meet licensing requirements
You’ll learn:
- Rules of the Road
- Navigation & plotting
- Safety procedures
- Chart work
- USCG regulations
Perfect for:
- Charter boat operators
- Fishing guides
- Commercial towing services
- Anyone required to hold a captain’s license
Boat Tutors - Recreational Boater Training
For recreational boaters who want skill, safety, and confidence.
Boat Tutors is designed for the everyday boater who doesn’t need a license but wants to feel safe and capable at the helm. Whether you’re a new boat owner, a seasonal boater, or someone who just wants to be prepared for real-world conditions, Boat Tutors provides in-person, hands-on instruction.
We teach:
- Docking & maneuvering
- Safe navigation
- What to do in emergencies
- Handling boats in different weather
- Comfort and confidence on the water
Perfect for:
- New boat owners
- Families with young passengers
- People nervous about launching or docking
- Seniors or seasonal boaters returning to the water
Comparison Chart
| Purpose | Format | Certification | Schedule | Audience | |
| The Captain School | Professional Licensing | Online + Classroom + Exam | Yes – USCG License | Structured Curriculum | Commercial Vessel Operators |
| Boat Tutors | Recreational Boating Skills | On-the-Water Instruction | No – Personal Instruction Only | Flexible Sessions | Recreational Boaters |
Not Sure Which Is Right for You?
We’re here to help.
Contact Captain Jack with your questions, or explore both course types to see what fits your goals.