March 22, 2006

Training Day

Training isn’t something that we think much about – but we should. Driving a high performance boat, such as a RIB, requires some special knowledge and skill to stay safe. Much like cars, many folks think they can simply get behind the wheel and go simply because they are old enough and can afford it.

Boats and RIBs are different. Just because someone may be a great car driver doesn’t mean their skills will transfer to the water.

There are several very good boat handling courses out there. A mix of class room and specialized on-the-water training are key. In my opion everyone would benefit from taking one - even those of us who have been on the water for years. Here are three that I recommend:

Ocean Rescue Systems
Coast Guard Auxiliary
Power Squadrons Public Boating Courses

There's been talk lately about having all boat operators be licensed. In fact, many states already require some form of certification. To find out if your state is one of them, check out this link from the National Association of Safe Boating Law Administrators. Should boat operators be licensed? Many think so. There’s merit to the idea, but what do you think?

Posted by ribcraftusa at March 22, 2006 04:35 PM