Tailored Training for the Yacht You Command
Every vessel is different. Every skipper is unique.That’s why all Your New Command training begins with a complimentary one-on-one assessment—so we can understand your boat, your needs, and your goals before setting a course together.
Training Packages
(Available after assessment. Pricing reflects direct instruction on your vessel.)
Close Quarters Command — 4 hours | $700
Master your slip and maneuvering
Four hours of hands-on instruction focused on the situations that intimidate most new boat owners: leaving and returning to your slip, operating in tight marina quarters, understanding how your boat handles at low speeds, and building confidence with twin-engine maneuvering. We’ll work in your actual marina environment so you’re practicing exactly what you’ll encounter every time you go out.
Master your slip and maneuvering — 4 hours | $700
Four hours of hands-on instruction focused on the situations that intimidate most new boat owners: leaving and returning to your slip, operating in tight marina quarters, understanding how your boat handles at low speeds, and building confidence with twin-engine maneuvering. We’ll work in your actual marina environment so you’re practicing exactly what you’ll encounter every time you go out.
Your new boat is a complex machine with interconnected mechanical and electronic systems. This four-hour deep dive covers your vessel’s critical systems, pre-departure checklists specific to your boat, what to monitor underway, how to identify problems before they become emergencies, and the basic troubleshooting that every captain should know.
We’ll work through your actual boat’s systems so you understand what you own.
Rules of the Road — 4 hours | $700
Navigate confidently and legally
Moving up to a larger vessel means different responsibilities under Coast Guard regulations. This classroom-style session covers the Navigation Rules, right-of-way situations, sound signals, lights and shapes, and the scenario planning you need to operate safely around commercial traffic, other recreational vessels, and in restricted channels. You’ll learn to think like a professional mariner before situations develop.
4 hours | $700
Safety Systems & Emergency Response — 4 hours | $700
Prepare your crew and yourself
The best safety equipment is useless if you don’t know how to use it under pressure. This package covers your vessel’s safety systems, conducting effective man overboard drills, training your crew or first mate, briefing guests appropriately, emergency communication procedures, and developing the muscle memory that matters when things go wrong. We’ll practice scenarios so you’re ready if the unexpected happens.
Beyond the Foundations: Ongoing Command Support
These packages give you the confidence to operate your vessel safely and competently. But every boat and every captain’s journey is different.
Once you’ve completed your foundational training, many clients continue with tailored hourly coaching to address their specific needs:
- Advanced docking techniques for your specific marina conditions
- Night operations and navigation
- Longer-range cruising preparation
- Guest captain orientation (teaching a spouse or crew member)
- Seasonal refreshers before cruising season
- Pre-purchase consultation for your next vessel
Hourly coaching is available at $175/hour, booked in 2-hour minimums. We’ll work together to identify exactly what you need and build a custom development plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our training is perfect for new yacht owners or anyone stepping up to command a larger vessel, especially twin screw yachts from 40 feet up to 100 tons. Whether you’re a beginner or want to refine your skills, we customize the program to your needs.
We offer training in the San Francisco Bay and Marina del Rey areas. Sessions are conducted both on our training yacht and on your own vessel for a hands-on experience.
You’ll learn essential skills such as low-speed control, managing wind, docking techniques, and how to effectively use your yacht’s instruments. We focus on building your confidence and competence at the helm.
Training duration varies depending on your experience and goals. We tailor the program to fit your schedule, whether you need a few focused sessions or an extended course.
Let’s Chart a Course Together
The first step is simple: schedule a complimentary phone or video consultation. We’ll discuss your vessel, your experience, and what you’d like to feel confident doing.
You won’t be asked to choose a package or make a commitment until we both agree on the right approach.
Your New Command gave me the confidence I needed to take charge of my 45-foot yacht. The personalized training made all the difference — especially learning how to handle tricky docking situations.
Sarah M San Francisco Bay