Seeking Information

[Ski in NC]

I think airline captain experience will pull some weight with insurers. Much of aircraft stuff applies to marine. Not 100% overlap, but a good bit. Like the other poster suggested, better than a bartender.

When I went for my first marine policy, I went applied as a mechanical engineer, diesel mechanic and I also had built the boat. The agent had seen the boat while it was being constructed. Policy written with no conditions. Street cred of what ever flavor matters.

But to the OP, do get some time with experienced cap's or owner/operators.

I am now a very experienced vessel operator. Put me in an airplane, and my knowledge gaps will be quite apparent!!!.

[NightCrawler]

Lot's of good advice here for sure. I can share that the insurance thing is a very big deal. Two issues, we're on a 26 year old boat - that limited the number of carriers severely. Next, even though I've had 50+ years boating the Great Lakes, because I never owned a large vessel - their requirements were very strict about captain training. I got lucky that we were referred to a quality guy who was very patient and did an awesome job with me and the admiral.

I would also suggest the Power Squadron training classes. They are cheap or free depending on the local unit. You will get exposed to a lot of the challenges a large boat owner will have to deal with, including safety and navigation. Well worth the time.

[BandB]

Originally Posted by NightCrawler

Lot's of good advice here for sure. I can share that the insurance thing is a very big deal. Two issues, we're on a 26 year old boat - that limited the number of carriers severely. Next, even though I've had 50+ years boating the Great Lakes, because I never owned a large vessel - their requirements were very strict about captain training. I got lucky that we were referred to a quality guy who was very patient and did an awesome job with me and the admiral.

I would also suggest the Power Squadron training classes. They are cheap or free depending on the local unit. You will get exposed to a lot of the challenges a large boat owner will have to deal with, including safety and navigation. Well worth the time.

We didn't have 50+ years, because we don't have 50+ years of life yet, but had a lifetime of lake boating. I think it's good they required some training before we took off in a larger boat across the gulf stream. We would have gone for the training regardless.

[Bacchus]

Originally Posted by NightCrawler

I would also suggest the Power Squadron training classes. They are cheap or free depending on the local unit. You will get exposed to a lot of the challenges a large boat owner will have to deal with, including safety and navigation. Well worth the time.

Absolutely agree - best buy in boating education - many different courses and just you pay for materials.
Many Squadrons are now doing on the water courses as well.

A + is you will add a network of similar minded folks to draw from.