Boating Safety

NauticEd Offers Online Training

What is NauticEd?

As the National Education Body for boating, NauticEd is committed to delivering courses that adhere to American National Standards, ensuring safety and skill development for boaters across the United States. With a student base of over 250,000 worldwide, NauticEd provides a comprehensive learning experience through online modules and practical training. Whether you’re learning to powerboat or sail, our programs build the competence and confidence needed for success on the water.

Here are the courses offered by NauticEd—

Navigation Rules for Powerboats Course – FREE!

Two boats on the water, who gives way?

Set yourself up for safety and confidence on the water with NauticEd’s FREE Navigation Rules for Powerboats Course! This course provides lifetime access to comprehensive training on the US Coast Guard and international "Rules of the Road." Perfect for both new and experienced boaters, the course covers critical topics like proper lookout techniques, navigating crossing situations, and understanding when to give way to other vessels.

In just 2 hours, you’ll master essential skills, such as:

  • When powerboats must yield to sailboats (and when they don’t).
  • How to avoid collisions with large container ships.
  • Why “Right of Way” is better understood as “Stand On.”
  • Proper navigation in busy waterways and with maritime traffic.

Price: FREE
Estimated Time: 2 hours

Bareboat Charter Master for Powerboats Bundle

Couple relaxing on boat in the ocean
Discover the freedom of chartering with the Bareboat Charter Master for Powerboats Bundle, the ultimate training package for multiday, near-coastal powerboating. Designed for both aspiring and experienced boaters, this bundle includes 5 comprehensive courses covering everything from large powerboat handling to coastal and electronic navigation, docking, anchoring, and more.

Upon completing the bundle and meeting the experience requirements, you’ll earn the prestigious SLC-p (Powerboats) certification. The SLC-p is an internationally recognized boating license, accepted by leading charter companies worldwide, and ensures you’re equipped to safely and confidently skipper a powerboat on any waterway.

Courses included:

  • Navigation Rules for Powerboats
  • Skipper Large Powerboat
  • Coastal Navigation
  • Bareboat Charter
  • Electronic Navigation

With 42 hours of in-depth training, this bundle offers a step-by-step approach to mastering the skills needed for powerboating success. Optional on-the-water assessments with NauticEd’s instructor network provide hands-on experience to elevate your competency further.

Estimated Time: 42 hours

Skipper Large Powerboat Online Course

Docking instruction for powerboats at the dock

Master the skills to confidently and safely skipper powerboats 27ft and larger with the Skipper Large Powerboat Course. This 20-hour online program follows American National Standards and international guidelines, covering everything from maneuvering and docking to navigation, weather assessment, and handling emergencies. Designed for boats with inboard, stern, or outboard drive systems, this course prepares you to operate in nearshore environments and moderate to rough conditions.

Whether you're a beginner or looking to advance your skills, this comprehensive course provides the knowledge and strategies needed to command large powerboats with confidence. Start today and gain lifetime access to the most complete online training for large powerboat operations.

Estimated Time: 20 hours

Coastal Navigation Online Course

Sailboat on the water

Master navigating unfamiliar waters with the Coastal Navigation Online Course. This comprehensive 10-hour course covers essential topics like chart reading, course plotting, and interpreting wind, tides, and currents. Whether you’re exploring inland waterways or venturing into near coastal areas, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to navigate safely and efficiently.

Perfect for all experience levels, this course teaches critical techniques such as dead reckoning, triangulation, and working with tides and currents. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently plan routes, determine headings, and ensure smooth and safe journeys in any conditions.

Estimated Time: 10 hours

Electronic Navigation Online Course

Electronic navigation equipment

Master the tools of modern boating with the Electronic Navigation Online Course. This 5-hour program teaches you how to confidently navigate using GPS, chart plotters, AIS, MARPA, and other advanced technologies. With interactive exercises and real-world scenarios, you’ll learn to interpret electronic charts, optimize autopilot settings, and safely navigate in various weather conditions.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced boater, this course provides the essential skills to maximize the capabilities of your onboard navigation systems. Expand your knowledge, enhance your safety, and navigate with confidence using the latest in electronic navigation tools.

Estimated Time: 5 hours