In this option you charter a boat and have an instructor join you for the first part of your charter to complete your training. It is ideal for those with a larger group, those who wish to select a specific vessel to learn on, have children aboard or crew that would rather vacation than participate in training, and those who need either more or less training than is supplied by the 4-day Power Learn-n-Cruise. Your instructor will provide you with private, individualized training at the start of your charter, then when you are ready you can return your instructor to Bellingham and continue your charter on your own.

The Bareboat Charter with Private Instruction option is highly customizable. You can tailor your experience to learn as much (or as little) as you choose. Just choose one of our power yachts, charter the vessel at our normal rates and we’ll work with you to plan how many days to have the instructor aboard (based on your goals, the size of boat and expected time to gain competency). The rate for the instructor is $425/day and you’ll want to include the instructor in your meal planning.

If you're new to boating and your goal is to become a bareboat-charter-qualified skipper, you'll cover all the skills taught in our 4 Day Power Learn-n-Cruise. Those who already have some skills can personalize the training to focus where needed. It is not required for everyone in your crew to participate in training though most find it helpful to have their crew practice basic deckhand skills while the instructor is onboard. If you have younger children aboard, it is helpful to have someone with them who is not training, so that those who are training can focus on learning. Older children are welcome to participate as they are often some of our best students!

• You may choose to include RPBA/Recreational Power Boat Association Close Quarters Powerboat Handling certification for either single or twin engine in your course. Successful completion of the certifiation indicates the student has demonstrated competence in handling either a twin inboard or single inboard competently and safely in close quarters and in light wind and or currents. For more information on the RPBA: RPBA Courses
• In general, your instructor will work with you on cruise and fuel planning, maneuvering in a marina, picking up a mooring ball and anchoring. In addition to yacht systems orientation and training, you’ll spend time learning to maneuver in close quarters and to use line handling techniques to your advantage while docking. You’ll have hands-on practice anchoring and tying up to a mooring ball. Training will also include navigation (chart and GPS chart plotter as well as understanding tides and current), route planning, safety and emergency procedures, VHF use, diesel engine troubleshooting and clear understanding of all the boat’s systems.
• Your instuctor will work with you on setting the optimal pace for your learning. There will time to go ashore and explore the islands and marinas and to enjoy your cruising experience.
• Powerboat Handling Illustrated, by Bob Sweet, is recommended reading for all students, and required reading for anyone planning to complete their RPBA Close Quarters Powerboat Handling certification. Order text online through ASA/American Sailing Association, through Amazon or iBooks, or check out from your local library.

Skipper/Instructor: $425/day for up to four students (with more students there isn’t enough helm time), plus charter fees, fuel, dock fees, and food for all aboard. Once your instructor qualifies you as "bareboat charter ready" you can return your instructor back to Bellingham and continue for the remainder of your charter on your own! You have the option to fly your instructor back to Bellingham (rather than return your instructor to Bellingham by boat) for $130. Adding the optional RPBA/Recreational Power Boat Association Close Quarters Powerboat Handling certification is $75/person.