Hands on Course for NEW BOATERS

[BULLWARKS]

Does a course exist that takes NEW Boaters out on the water to show them;<br /> - How to start your engine<br /> - How to unload and LOAD your boat on the trailer<br /> - How to service your Motor and Trailer<br /> - How to run in shallow or weedy water<br /> - How to change your prop<br />OR for FISHING<br /> - How to use your Downrigger, Sonar or GPS<br /><br />You can think of other things that you encountered as new Boaters that you wished someone had told/shown you.<br /><br />Are there such courses/programs? I know there are CLASSROOM Programs but what about hands on ON THE WATER?

 

[bayman]

Re: Hands on Course for NEW BOATERS

There are plenty of such hands-on classes for sailing because sailing can be so much more difficult and less obvious.<br /><br />As for power boaters, I would think it would be difficult to get such groups together. The best widely available hands-on training is probably just going out with a buddy several times to get the hang of it.

 

[phantoms]

Re: Hands on Course for NEW BOATERS

Ask for help at the boat ramp, many would be happy to help show you how to load/unload, take a boat-wise buddy along, join a boating club, ask a few dealers if there are any courses they know of, etc.

 

[mercury_40hp]

Re: Hands on Course for NEW BOATERS

It used to be around here when you bought a new boat the dealer would personally take you out on the water and show you all the things previously mentioned. I guess they don't do that anymore.....

 

[mattttt25]

Re: Hands on Course for NEW BOATERS

the good dealers still do this. unfortunately, it's usually only the high end manufacturers that do it. when i bought my USED grady, the dealer took me out on a 2 hr orientation cruise, just to get familar with my new boat. this was after the purchase was made, so no need to sell me anything. just standard grady practice.