Preparation and USCG testing for those seeking to explore work opportunities in the Commercial segment of the Maritime Industry.
Seamanship Principles
A study of basic nautical terminology and legal requirements of vessels.
Marlinspike Seamanship
A “hands-on” study of bends, hitches, splices, blocks and tackle, the care and inspection of wire rope as well as other shipboard “arts of the sea.”
Aids to Navigation
Identification and understanding of the use of Aids to Navigation on waterways.
Vessel Maneuvering / Handling /Docking / Anchoring
The theory of operation of both sail and power driven vessels.
Fire Prevention / Fire Fighting
Firefighting techniques, pyrotechnic and survival equipment.
Boating Laws & Regulations
Review of Boating Laws and Regulations aspertain to vessels.
Towing Theory
Practical applications and techniques in towing and anchoring.
Sail Theory
Sail theory and practical application.
Weather Characteristics
The science of the atmosphere and its phenomena. Includes basic principles of meteorology and practical aspects of oceanography. Also covered are winds, weather warnings and displays, basic cloud formations, using a barometer, weather disturbances and storms, and simple forecasting methods.
Basic Engines
Provides a practical understanding of the operation and routine maintenance of basic mechanical systems aboard vessels, with emphasis on diesel and gasoline inboard engines. The subject matter is presented in the classroom and demonstrated in Chapman School’s engine shop facility and on our vessels.
Boat Maintenance
Practical “hands on” instruction in basic boat repair and prevention. Topics include varnishing and painting techniques, fiberglass care and repair, and caulking/maintenance of wooden hulls.
Engineering Systems
A hands-on approach to learning and maintaining various electrical/mechanical systems onboard most types of vessels. Includes identification, tracking, drawing and developing inspection and maintenance procedures for equipment such as engines, generators, water makers, air conditioners, AC/DC systems, fresh and hot water systems, waste systems, galley equipment, steering and control systems, stability and other systems found throughout a vessel. Cargo operations, pollution prevention and trailering are also covered.
Using nautical charts and the marine compass, students are shown various methods to accurately establish a vessels position and to project later positions via deduced reckoning. Additional elements cover the effects of currents and tides through use of publications and tide tables.
Electronic Navigation
Includes the theory and operation of marine electronic equipment such as VHF and SSB radios, GPS, Radar, Weather Fax and Chart Plotters. This training is supplemented by simulation exercises. Practical applications are taught in both the electronics lab and onboard training vessels.
Marine Radio Operators Permit
Course confers the authority to operate licensed radio stations in the aviation, marine and international fixed Public radio Services. Course includes 1 hour FCC exam.
Navigation Rules - 19 hrs
Comprehensive study of Nautical Rules of the Road designed to prepare students for the safe & competent operation of vessels on inland & international waters. Includes: the correct procedure to adopt when standing watch, helm responsibilities and observation techniques.
Vessel Maneuvering, Handling & Practical Assessments
Vessel theory & operation of power & sail boats. Instruction in all basic aspects of boat handling & safety procedures, building on theoretical skills learned. This practical training, includes dockside procedures, underway maneuvering, anchoring, & man overboard drills. Assessment & sign off of competencies by qualified instructors through practical demonstration of skills by students as listed in log book and assessment sheets.
Simulator Practical Exercises
Simulated exercises incorporating “real world” vessel conditions, vessel traffic, obstacles and lack of visibility.
Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities
Individual shipboard responsibilities, teamwork, communications, health & hygiene, safety equipment, oil pollution and waste regulations, and handling shipboard emergencies.
Personal Survival Techniques
Designed to teach students the principles of survival at sea.
First Aid
Prepares student in emergency treatment of injuries that can occur in a Maritime or Industrial environment.
Basic Marine Firefighting
Students learn the theory & application of shipboard firefighting. Please note that Firefighting is held at Port Canaveral Maritime Academy.
Provides knowledge for crew members working at port facilities & on vessels. Includes the meaning & requirements of the different security levels; emergency procedures & contingency plans; recognition & detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices; non-discriminatory recognition of the characteristics & behavioral patterns of persons likely to threaten security; and the techniques used to circumvent security measures.
Preparation and USCG testing for those seeking to explore work opportunities in the Commercial segment of the Maritime Industry.