In-Command Seamanship Training, located in the heart of historic Wickford, RI, now offers a specially-designed Women In-Command class that brings together like-minded women to help build confidence in their boating skills. The 4+2 program incorporates four hours of classroom training plus two hours of private-on-the-water training that puts women at the helm, operating boats while gaining valuable knowledge and developing boat handling skills.

Captain Carol Beecher, Program Director, said, “If you are out alone with the captain or have children with you, possessing basic boat handling skills and an understanding of emergency and radio procedures can be vital if something happens to the primary operator. It can mean the difference between a great day of boating and a really bad day on the water. Our classes are comprised of a group of no more than four women, plus two hours of private on-the-water training with a female captain.”

“This unique format gives each student not only the practical, useful information needed for anyone stepping onto a boat, but also one-on-one, on-the-water private lessons to focus on the areas that are most important to each student,” Captain Beecher added. “Participants gain knowledge and experience to confidently take the wheel, or if they choose, learn to become an active, integral crew member. This way, you can participate like a seasoned boater on your boat, or as a guest on someone else’s.”

In-Command is the only full-service, certified training center in the region that is a partner with US Powerboating, the BoatUS Foundation, and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. In-Command works with boat owners who are interested in building their skills aboard their own vessels, as well as new owners of larger vessels and insurance companies to support their seamanship skill development and operating systems. ■