Boat Rental Training Course

FLORIDA BOATING SAFETY COURSE

At the Naples School of Boating, we take boater safety and education very seriously. Prior to completing any of our training programs, trainees must complete the Florida Safe Boating Course. The cost of this course is free and it can be completed entirely online. Here is the link to the FREE Florida Safe Boating Course. Once you have completed the Florida Safe Boating Course and have a certificate of completion, you may contact us to request a training appointment.

ON-WATER BOAT TRAINING COURSE:

The second step in our Rental Boat Training Course is an on-water training session aboard a rental boat. During this 4-hour session, you will be trained by a Licensed Captain with over 10 years of experience as a Boating Instructor. This session will provide you with the confidence and skill required to venture out and enjoy the waterways of Southwest Florida. The topics that you will learn include:

• Docking and maneuvering in close quarters
• Proper anchoring procedures
• Piloting and navigation with GPS
• Practical experience navigating the ATON system
• Practical experience using the nautical Rules of the Road
• Safety review
• Using VHF Radio
• How to read Nautical Charts
• Understanding Tides and Weather

FAQ’S ABOUT THE RENTAL BOAT TRAINING COURSE

Where is the training program conducted?

We conduct our training aboard vessels rented from several different vendors located in Naples, Florida. The Naples School of Boating will coordinate the rental boat for all training sessions, and you will then be provided with further instructions. 

What type of boat is the training course conducted with?

We provide the rental training on single-engine, monohull boats. While we aim to provide you with the boat of your choice, all rentals are subject to availability especially during peak season. 

What is the cost of the Rental Boat Training Course?

You will need a budget of approximately $1,000 to complete this program. The Florida Safe Boating Course is free. The cost of our course is $500 and the cost of a half-day boat rental is approximately $500. All courses through the Naples School of Boating are subject to changes including price changes at any time. All rentals are subject to the prices, terms and conditions set forth by their respective companies.

How do I schedule the training course?

Please contact the Naples School of Boating and we will assist you in scheduling not only the boat, but also the instructor. During “busy season” which is November through the end of April, please expect to wait at least two weeks for your sessions. You will not be allowed to schedule any appointments until you have completed the Florida Safe Boating Course and send us a copy of your certificate, which you will be able to print out as soon as you complete the Florida Safe Boating Course.

Can I buy additional training sessions? 

Yes, but you will also need to pay for the rental boat in addition to our training fee.

Are there any restrictions with the Rental Boat Training Course?

All training appointments are subject to the terms and conditions stated in the customer agreement, which you will be provided with and required to sign and return prior to scheduling your training appointments. Training appointments are also subject to the terms and conditions of the rental agreement. However, there a few important restrictions that we would like to point out:

1. Our program allows for TWO trainees aboard the boat. No other passengers or guests are allowed.
2. Trainees must have a Florida Safe Boating Certificate to operate the rental boat and must meet the minimum age requirements determined by the rental boat company.

Our on-water training program is an excellent choice for boaters who want to become better, safer boat renters, and those who would like to gain some knowledge and experience at the helm before purchasing a boat. If you have additional questions please contact us and we will be happy to help.