Hands-On Boating Lesson

• 4 Hours
• $450+

This is the only hands-on boating safety lesson in the Keys. You learn how to: a) dock a boat in different situations, b) drop and retrieve an anchor, c) understand weather, wind, and tides and d) drive a boat. Just one tip from this four hour session could pay for the entire lesson.

100% Hands-On Boating Safety Lesson

You are thinking about buying a motor boat, or you recently bought one, but you don’t have the experience to comfortably head out on the water by yourself. Or, you might instead wish to rent a boat without having to hire a captain.

With Keys Boat Tours, based out of Sunshine Key RV Resort/ Ohio Key (MM39), you learn how to: a) dock a boat in different situations, b) drop and retrieve an anchor, c) understand weather, wind, and tides, and  d) drive a boat with confidence.  You also have the option to learn how to properly trailer a boat (1 hour). You put the boat in and take it out. We start by taking a look at a chart. We review some physical aspects to the boating safety course and some other practical advice. We review local navigation, so that you truly understand markers and don’t run aground. This is a “must take” course for: a) anyone who is not 100% confident in operating a boat, b) anyone who is buying/purchased a boat, and c) anyone who wants to boat safely and properly. Hands-on training is required for all. Classroom lessons are great, but this is the true test.

This first of its kind, official hands-on boating course is; 4 hours, up to 2 individuals for $500. The Lesson comes with our compendium book, BOAT FISH LIVE written by Capt. Brian Branigan. It includes the motor boat lesson, a sailing overview, and fishing guide to the Keys.

The lesson takes place Sunshine Key RV Resort/ Ohio Key (MM39). But, we also offer to come to you and use your boat ($100 per hour travel time, e.g., Key Largo +$200). We introduce you to your boat (and boating playground), and can even put tracks on “your” GPS. This 4 hour “private” lesson will start your boating life like nothing else.

We also offer: fishing 101, and local / backcountry navigation 101 lessons. You will gain lots of confidence from what you learn too – guaranteed. Makes a great gift!

Rates

Things you might want to bring along

Sunscreen (reef safe), long sleeve sun shirt, hat, neck gaiter, sunglasses, wind breaker, bandana, personal water bottle.

Notes

• A signed release waiver, and cash or credit card payment, is required prior to boarding.
• COVID-19: Facial coverings are mandatory in the Florida Keys – Please wear a face mask/neck gaiter inside our shop and at the marina.
• If prone to seasickness, we recommend that you take Dramamine (or other) as directed.
• We want you to drink plenty of water, have something to eat, and use sunscreen liberally.
• We have a 48-hour cancellation policy, and the Captain reserves the right to cancel any trip due to weather and/or any other circumstances

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Our Hands-On Boating lesson takes place in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the entirety of the Keys is considered the sanctuary. The link below will direct you to a 30-to-45 minute online course made by FKNMS and NOAA that complements our Hands-On Boating Lesson and will inform you about the sanctuary, and the important rules that protect both the resources and boaters in the Keys. It is a great way to get you up to speed before or after this Hands-On lesson.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Boater Education Course.

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