From first-time anglers to aspiring captains — browse upcoming sessions and find the right program for your student.
*Monthly Program* Ready to take your skills to the next level? C.A.P.T. is First Mate Academy's advanced, ongoing training program for young mariners ages 15 and up who are ready for advanced learning and responsibilities. Students get hands-on, on-the-water and dry-land instruction taught by USCG-licensed captains, with real access to the First Mate Academy boat, valuable sea time, and the chance to mate alongside captains on professional charters. Training is tailored to each apprentice's interests and goals — building real hours on the water and real-world experience toward becoming a captain.
*5-Week (5 Classes) Curriculum-Based Course* Tuesdays 4:30-6:30 or Wednesdays 5:00-7:00. FIRST MATE ACADEMY provides year-round, curriculum- based youth marine education and training where students gain proficiency as second in command (to the Captain of a chartered vessel). Students earn a progression of FIRST MATE certifications paving way to achieving a Captain's License.
Registration: OPEN *Five Week Session (5 Classes), Curriculum-Based Course* Time: 10 am - 12 noon 1) Tuesday Class 2) Wednesday Class 3) Thursday Class (a.m. only) FIRST MATE ACADEMY provides year-round, curriculum- based youth marine education and training where students gain proficiency as second in command (to the Captain of a chartered vessel). Students earn a progression of FIRST MATE certifications paving way to achieving a Captain's License. Step Up For Students - Direct Provider
REGISTRATION COMING SOON *4-Week (4 classes) Program* Introduce your youngest adventurers to boating and fishing with Mighty Mates — a fun, engaging program designed for children ages 5-7. Students learn fundamental fishing and boating skills through hands-on activities tailored to their age and ability, with structured guidance from professional First Mates and Captains.
ADVANCED SKILLS SERIES *Go deeper into the skills and activities you want to learn. SPECIALIZED PROGRAM DAILY THEMES -FISHING : Refine techniques and strategies for locating and targeting fish. -ANCHORING: Practice choosing a location, setting an anchor and retrieval. -STONE CRAB TRAP SETTING : Learn trap preparation, placement and setting techniques. -BAIT CATCHING : Build skills for finding, catching and caring for live bait. -WATERWAY CLEANUP : Collect litter and help protect our waterways and marine habitats. -MAN OVERBOARD & EMERGENCY TRAINING: Practice recovery procedures and emergency response through guided scenarios.
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First Mate Academy