With an estimated 2.5-million Ontario boaters taking to the water this season, the need for practical, hands-on training has never been greater. BoaterSkills.ca, a training program for recreational boaters in Ontario, has begun offering its boating safety and basic skills development clinics across the province.  There’s no classroom, no exam, no major time commitment – just you, your boat, your crew and a day with a professional captain.

Conveniently located in the offices of the Yacht Brokerage firm North South Nautical Group Inc. at Port Harbour Marina, BoaterSkills.ca sends a professional instructor to their client’s boat to provide half or full-day onboard training. From tying knots, to docking, anchoring and rules of the road, BoaterSkills.ca tailors the clinics to the client’s individual needs.

Craig Hamilton, founder and chief instructor of Boaterskills.ca, has sailed many parts of the world as a professional skipper and has witnessed time and again disastrous outcomes as a result of boaters who have not received even the most basic training before heading out on the water.

“BoaterSkills.ca provides you with the hands-on training you need to be safe on the water,” said Hamilton. “The Pleasure Craft Operator Card program makes you legal to operate a boat; we want you to be competent to operate a boat.”

Mike Burns, President and owner of North South Nautical Group, works with BoaterSkills.ca to offer hands-on training to his clients. He says more boaters need to appreciate the many benefits to hands-on training.

 ”From what I have observed in the past, proper training can only enhance the experience people have on the water with their boats, and Craig has certainly created a curriculum that can accomplish this,” said Burns.  “As people’s boating skills develop, so does their confidence.”

Many clients have already found value in receiving safety and skills training from BoaterSkills.ca. “I am a new boater and have taken other courses,” said Mike Saxena of Whitby, Ontario. “In a few short hours, I learned more about my boat and my capabilities than I did on a full weekend course.”

“Craig was patient, professional, and a great communicator; always with safety first and foremost,” said Don Moyle of Honey Harbour. “It was an excellent experience and we would recommend this for all boaters”.

Boaters who take advantage of this type of training may also notice a difference on their next insurance bill. Leading insurance companies in Ontario are offering marine insurance discounts to BoaterSkills.ca clients.

The BoaterSkills.ca half-day and full-day clinics offer an excellent and affordable way for all boaters to get started with the proper training and safety instruction that everyone should have. To find out more, please visit www.boaterskills.ca.

For more information about BoaterSkills.ca, Contact: Craig Hamilton, Chief Instructor, craig@boaterskills.ca or 905-484-BOAT (2628). For more information on North South Nautical Group Inc. visit: www.NorthSouthYachtSales.com

Photo: Craig Hamilton (left) onboard and providing instruction to an owner.