OUPV “6-Pack” Captain’s License – Inland, Great Lakes & Near Coastal

The USCG-approved OUPV “6-Pack” Captain’s License authorizes you to carry up to six passengers for hire, plus crew, on your vessel. This course is designed for captains operating on federal waters with paying passengers, including guided fishing trips, waterfowl hunting, sightseeing tours, and similar commercial activities.

Class Schedule

OUPV to 100-Ton Master – Inland, Great Lakes, Near Coastal (Online or In-Person)

Ready to upgrade your OUPV license to a 100-Ton Master’s License? Explorers Guide is here to help. Your documented sea service determines both the route and tonnage of your license. Courses are available in person and online, with routes including Inland, Great Lakes, and Near Coastal.

Class Schedule

USCG Approved Courses

Able Seaman

Our Able Seaman course covers Deck Safety, Rules of the Road, and Navigation General. The Lifeboatman requirement is not included and must be completed separately for endorsement. This is not a PSC course and applies to AB ratings on vessels without lifeboats. The course also includes the USCG-approved practical demonstration of competency in knot tying and splicing.

Class Schedule

Assistance Tow

The Assistance Towing Endorsement is added to your captain’s license and is required for captains who tow vessels for a fee. This USCG-required endorsement authorizes you to assist vessels that are disabled, aground, or out of fuel.

Class Schedule

Auxiliary Sail

The Auxiliary Sail Endorsement is added to your captain’s license and authorizes operation of sailing vessels with auxiliary propulsion. This USCG-approved endorsement is required for captains operating sailboats for hire and covers sail theory, rigging, sail handling, and safe sailing practices.

Class Schedule

American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED certification

CPR/First Aid is required to obtain a Merchant Mariner Credential. We offer American Red Cross blended courses that include online instruction, with required skills checks completed at any of our scheduled classes. Enrollment in a captain’s course is not required. For skills checks outside scheduled courses, please contact us prior to purchase to make arrangements.

Courses

On-Line MROP (Marine Radio Operators Permit)

A Commercial Radio Operator License is required to operate certain ship radio stations. This includes vessels carrying more than six passengers for hire, vessels using medium- or high-frequency radios, vessels operating to foreign ports, ships transmitting radiotelegraphy, and vessels over 300 gross tons that are legally required to carry a radio station for safety purposes.

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Chart Your Course with Explorers Guide

Become a Licensed Captain!

Ready to take the helm of your own vessel? Explorers Guide offers USCG-approved Captain's License courses to suit your needs. Whether you're a recreational boater or aspiring marine professional, our expert instructors will guide you through the process.

Why Choose Explorers Guide?

Personalized Learning: Benefit from one-on-one interaction with your instructor and fellow students.
Flexible Scheduling: Our classes are designed to fit your busy lifestyle, with weekend options.
Engaging Instruction: Our experienced instructors use practical props and create a focused learning environment.
Dedicated Support: We're committed to your success. Additional mentoring is available to ensure you fully understand the material.
Affordable Options: Financing is available to help you achieve your goals.
Don't Wait, Navigate Your Future!