US Merchant Marine Officer - Professional Boat Captain

Program Checklist (opens a new window) |

Program Description

Professional Boat Captains are responsible for piloting a variety of boats for commercial purposes such as charter boats, dinner cruises, water taxis and assistance towing. Classes cover Navigation, General Deck Safety, Rules of the Nautical Road, Lights, Shapes and Signals, and the Code of Federal Regulation (CFR).

Successful Completion:

CCBC Credential: Students will have access to a Continuing Education academic record (transcript). Students will be awarded a Continuing Education Workforce Training Certificate. Students will be prepared to apply for a Professional Boat Captain license by the U.S. Coast Guard (testing is done in class).

Certifying Organization: U.S. Coast Guard www.gocoastguard.com

Career Opportunities:

Captain of a Charter Boat, Water Taxi, Tour Boat and Delivery Boat.

Program Length

5 weeks (evening and Saturday classes)

Courses are offered in Fall, Winter & Spring at CCBC Dundalk.

Program Requirements

The U.S. Coast Guard has several prerequisites for licensing which include CPR/First Aid and Drug Testing.

Application Process

Open Entry – No screening or documentation required.

Course Sequence

1. U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s Licensing Course (MASTER): VOA 079

Textbook/Materials:
- Textbook is provided and included in the course costs.

Program Costs

Tuition/Fees: $1043 (Tuition-$335/Fees-$708)
Textbook/Materials: N/A

Contact Information

Coordinator: Jim Fitch jfitch@ccbcmd.edu 443-840-1237 Essex, BESS-129

Director: Michelle McCallum mmccallum@ccbcmd.edu 443-840-1925 Essex, BESS-117

Financial Aid and Payment Options

Continuing Education Opportunity Grant
Partial Payment Option (through Nelnet Business Solutions)
Tuition Waiver for Senior Citizens and Individuals with Disabilities
Employer/Sponsor Paid Tuition
Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
Local Office of Workforce Development