How To Get Your Captain's License. Everything You Need To Know. E177

[@gretz4293]

Passed my exam today! 7 days of 8hr classes...what a grind, but feels great to be a Captain!!! See ya on the water..

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Great job!

[@justing1810]

Yarrr matey

[@RossOsborne-or4mo]

Can you start your Document Seatime at 17 Years old?

[@darrellyoung9586]

Getting your license is a lot different now, then when I did it. I got my first license as a Merchant Mariner in 1970. Each upgrade required a years sea time. Exams were all in person at the Coast Guard exam centers and usually took a week or more. There were several tonnage licenses available, but I stuck with the Unlimited. I took 15 years to finally get my Unlimited Masters license. I never took a course, other than graduating from the Maritime Academy. I studied on my own and gained experience on every type of vessel. I was a Master for 30 years. It was a career I chose and I loved it. CONGRATULATIONS on getting your 6 Pack License.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

That is very interesting. Thanks for watching!

[@RossOsborne-or4mo]

How hard did it take to get your Master Captain License?

[@andywilson9543]

Best advice doe taking those test is pay attention to MAY and MUST with the coast guard. Can be exact same answer with that one word making the difference. Congrats on the license

[@tryingnottosink9107]

You are exactly right. It took me a while to pick up on that difference. As well as "will" or "intends to."

[@andywilson9543]

@@tryingnottosink9107 yeah. On my 8th issue now and a few upgrades, have seen many tricks in 30+ yrs of testing. I think it s very helpful to get the license for pleasure boaters. Professional mariners can definitely tell a difference

[@peterriess8256]

I got my 100 Ton Master’s Credential 10 years ago. I never intended to carry passengers for hire; I just got it to fulfill a lifelong goal to get one. It was hard work to get it, but completely worth it.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Same with me.

[@blueboatone5653]

I had a 6 pack offshore and a 25 ton inshore. I had to go to Baltimore to take the test. I failed the navigation twice, by one question each time. I finally realized that what I didn't know was in the footnotes of the text. The footnotes were in much smaller print and I ignored them. Once I realized that, I passed the next time. Love your videos. I'm binge watching all of them.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

I was aware that you had to read "everything!" It helped me to pass on the first try. Thanks for watching!

[@ern222]

Congratulations, Captain. I did it maybe 20 years ago in person. I sweated it but not as much as you because we learned the same day but you did excellent. Back when I did it, you could take a weekend course and update your six pack to a 25 or 50 ton in one weekend. As well as you did on the six pack, that would be a piece of cake for you, actually easier than the six pack. It enabled me to work part time when I retired as a water taxi. Captain and I did eventually get upgraded to 100 ton so my advice is don’t stop at six go for 50 or 100. Your boat is easily big enough to get a 50 ton if not 100 ton

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks! I probably should have done both at the same time. I have heard that USCG would probably give me a 100 ton because of my experience on my current boat.

[@5thGenNativeTexan]

Great video. "Always learning" is a great mode to be in regardless of the hobby/sport you do. I'm a pilot, and although I only do it for personal / recreational purposes, I'm always looking for some further education, rating, license, etc to work on. Even if I don't ever plan to actually employee those licenses for monetary/commercial use, the knowledge gained is not just very rewarding, it's immensely helpful in your hobby. I had one instructor tell me once when I was just starting to fly: "You have two bags.. one is luck and one is experience. When you start out, you'll be dipping into your luck bag, but one day that luck bag will be empty, and you better hope you've filled up that experience bag."

[@rogerblackwood8815]

I've picked up a few instructors wise words along the way, but that is a new one and a good one thanks👍 One of my favourites is in the case of single engine night flight, an old instructor who I respect immenseley told me, "only Bats and Prats fly at night in a single"! Just in case you're not from the UK, a Prat is someone who acts recklessly! Merry Christmas

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks for watching. That is a great quote!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Merry Christmas Roger!

[@ChrisBurkholder]

You weren't joking about the painfully long wait but thanks for the inspiration, finally received my credential in the mail today ⚓

[@jimmyPOUFAJones]

When in doubt choose C..... Got me through 23 in the Submarine service. Congratulations you are now officially responsible Captain! Congratulations 👏

[@mdbassin6267]

Took the test 20 some years ago in Baltimore all in one day - was shocked when they told me I passed all parts that day - congrats!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Great job!

[@mvconcorde5243]

I've had my Lovely Spouse asking for a few months now about me getting a Six Pack, and I had no clue what to do about it. I had even less interest in going to look anything up. And now, here you are with all the "I"s crossed, and all the "T"s dotted so that even a dummy like me can follow it. Thanks a lot man! Now I don't have a lot of choice in going to try to do this...

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Are you sure she wasn't telling you to do ab exercises?😁 It was definitely worth the effort. I learned a lot.

[@mikezuber5052]

Congratulations Ed. Your comment about doing it for pride rang true with me. I have done several scuba diving certification specialties and that always factored in. It’s like getting into a club of competent, serious folks who share a similar interest. Well done.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you. That is exactly how I felt about taking the test. Wish I could do the Scuba Cert but I have asthma and I believe that is a problem.

[@cruzerfj4060]

Congratulations Capt! That's a lot of info to take in for sure. I just completed a great in person OUPV licensing course at the Chapman School of Seamanship in Port Salerno Florida. Taking this course on line probably would not have worked for me but good on you for getting it done.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks! I think it is best to take the course in person if possible. There are not that many options in Philly and I have an odd schedule.

[@kennyhollidayjr5206]

Cool man, I live in Jensen and taking that course there in Sept!

[@Goodoverevil2]

Hey I just finished there! Capt Tom was great

[@rogerblackwood8815]

Congrats on the licence and they say the older you get the harder it is to learn. So you're showing the way there👍 Merry Christmas and a happy new year to you and all mariners, aviators and land lubbers!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you! I agree. It would have been easier when I was younger. It has been years since I had to study for anything. It's not easy when you are out of practice. Merry Christmas!

[@Richardgwilliams]

Hello from the UK,I did the UK version ( sort of) a Commercial Skippers ‘ticket’ up to 24 metres , 12 passengers 60 miles from a Safe Haven When I was 55 I’ve kept the qualification valid but when one turns 70 you have to have an Annual medical So far so good I’m now 76! I agree though at 55 even it was quite some effort to remember all the ‘Rules of the Road’ Col Regs, lights and shapes etc etc Wished I’d have done it 20 years earlier😂 Well done ‘Captain’ it’s no cake walk any side of the Atlantic!

[@DriveSafeDon]

Holy crap Ed and I was gonna take my captain license five years ago didn’t realize how much involved it has become. Congratulations captain. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks! There was a lot to learn but it was worth the effort.

[@davehill7484]

Took the six pack CG course back in 05 with the wife and past all segments of the test first go around,, yes ,the knowledge gained was the main reason why we took the course, and now 16 years later I’m still glad we decided to take our captains course, although I wish we had done the extra lecture and took the extra test segment to get the masters license.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

I am kinda regretting not going for the Masters as well.

[@jimb4033]

Captain Ed Well Done. I received my 100 Ton Near Coastal in Jan 2013 and immediately got a job running a BoatUS type towboat (with my Assistance Towing endorsement). 5 years later when I needed to renew I had to retest, being short on sea time (which I won't fake). I too used Mariner's Learning for my initial license. Went on my own for the renewal. As said below, you can take the CG test all you want. I went to the USCG site for the question list. As of today there are 3,061 question in Deck General Alone. Some I had no idea of. And there was no study guide. I quickly figured I probably knew 2/3 of the material. The rest would be half lucky guess and half Hail Mary. I was shooting for 70% plus 1 and got it, with room to spare. So, don't go to hard on MLS for not exposing you to everything. Not possible. Keep learning and See you on the One. Capt Jim 100 Ton NC on MV Dawn Watch. Looping in 2023.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Many of the questions that I did not recognize were about inland boat on the Mississippi. It really wasn't covered in the course. Somehow I managed to get most of them correct anyway. See you on the water!

[@GEvans1983]

First Congrats on getting your captains license. Second, nice Star Trek reference, Q was never my favorite character but he sure made travel look easy.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks! That was the second time Q interfered with one of our videos!

[@larrys4109]

Congratulations Ed! I had a 100 ton with a towing endorsement awhile back. Got it for the same reason, to advance my knowledge in something I really enjoyed doing. Great job!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks. It was definitely worth the effort.

[@jgwinks]

Congratulations Capt! I've been licensed now over 25 years, currently hold 200 Ton Great Lakes/Inland and 100 Ton Near Coastal, Motor, Steam Auxiliary Sail w/ Assistance Towing endorsement. I have taught classroom for two different schools and proctored live exams for Mariner's Learning System. It's a good program, the average scores I saw were higher than the classroom courses. That said I have no idea how many students started the course and didn't finish, I never saw them. It's down to how you learn, some do better in the classroom, others can be successful with the online. You don't "have" to take a course to get licensed, as we say when selling the course, you can take the exams directly from the Coast Guard and fail them as many times as you want. Pretty much everybody passes the courses. Very few pass with the CG, at least the first time out.

[@Eric-mm6wo]

Thanks for nice and practical information.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you. Taking the course, and test, online worked great for me. I critiqued the course a bit, but it worked. It is interesting that you saw higher scores for the online participants. I would have thought the classroom students would do better. Cheers!

[@mrchrisss8689]

Oo😊iiniiooo i😊 ii I I iwill iini😊o oooookkkjjkki i

[@homerjsimpson2118]

40sec to 55 sec best words i have heard in years!!! makes people not good at school able to drive a boat.non discriminating as people not good at school also are exelent captains.

[@jackphilly338]

Congratulations Ed on getting your Captain license. I got mine when I started running the Fire boat. I went and took the course in Toms river it was only 2 weeks back then. Its amazing when you thought you knew a lot about boating until you take a course. I still like to use my charts just so I know of any changes in the waters I boat in. Waters can change from year to year. So any way I hope you have a Merry Xmas and a Happy New year.

[@rikspector]

I worked in Toms River for many years, it's my old stomping grounds. Great place to boat!\ Out here, There are very nice Marinas in Bellingham and Blaine.. I live in Ferndale, Wa the last nine years...followed my family here It's nice but I miss the Ocean County places. CHeers, Rik Spector

[@tryingnottosink9107]

It is amazing how much there was to learn. The nice thing about using Navionics and Aqua maps is that they are continuously updated by data sent in by other boaters. Merry Christmas!

[@jefferyholland]

Congratulations Captain Ed. Very interesting process, thanks for sharing. Love to see Monty Python and the Holy Grail in the background of your video. I would not be surprised if you were a Frank Zappa fan as well.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you. And thanks for watching. I can't tell you how many times I played "Joe's Garage" in my college days.

[@stevemacmillan2116]

Congratulations Ed! Very well done, and great marks! Wishing you and Lynn a Very Merry Christmas

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you! Merry Christmas!

[@Xtremekreations]

i have heard these same comments from others about mariners learning systems. missing info etc. i decided to use us capt training for my oupv and their course is great. you also know as soon as the test is done if you have passed that section. there is no sending things back and waiting. another thing to note for people that want to take a class, as of jan 1st 23, even if you take a course in person, the test must be done online by an independant proctor. your teacher cannot give you the test in person. these are the new uscg rules for this year.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks for the information!

[@markp6334]

Nice job Ed! I would like to try and obtain my license in 2023. It was always on my bucket list to do but now that I’m retired I should have more time to dedicate. I just keep going back and forth about doing it in person or home study like you. Great info and Congrats! I’m in the Titusville area too, hope to run into you guys on the water sometime.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks!. Doing it online was definitely convenient but it depends on the person. In person probably works best for most people. We are hoping to be back in Titusville in March. Hopefully we'll run into each other some time.

[@nvrick7729]

@@tryingnottosink9107 Hopefully, you won't actually 'run into' each other. That would be embarrassing, lol.🥴

[@sisaacs6071]

Captain Ed!!!! From the frozen Northwoods of Wisconsin:: 🎉🎉🙌 Congratulations!!! Excellent video and remember you're never lost only temporarily misplaced...... Safe travels 🙏, Scott and FuzzyNugget ( the traveling Cat)

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you, from the not so frozen Philadelphia!

[@wksoftranquility1040]

Congratulations Ed! Your summary was very good. I found the hardest part of the licensing process was the logged hours reporting. The format the USCG wanted was much more detailed than I originally thought. Had to resubmit my file with specific monthly usage on my 5 vessels over 30 years.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks. Getting all the paperwork together is a pain as well. Doctors reports, drug tests, TWIC card, etc.

[@CaptRD]

That was very interesting about taking the test online. When I took the test that was not an option, it had to be taken in person. After listening to your experience, I would still want to do the test in person. When I took the test, it was proctored by someone from the USCG and at the time there were only five or six people testing with me and not everyone was taking the same test or tests. As the various tests were completed by each person they were graded by the proctor when you turned in one test in and started on another, so by the time you finished your last test it only took a little while longer to get the final test graded and you learned if you passed or failed the very same day. I think within about ten minutes after completing the final section I got my total test results. I would have been on pins and needles if I had to wait like you did. So, you have shown me that sometimes the old way of doing things is faster and has its advantages over new technology. Congratulations!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

It definitely would have been nice to get the results that fast. It is odd that they would not let the computer tell me until after they received my charts and scratch pad. However, it was less stressful to take the test over a couple days.

[@glennschuster3392]

Awesome! Congrats! I'm also working toward my USCG Captain's License, and also for the pride of it...

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Best of luck! It is well worth the effort!

[@ArtVanAuggie]

I'm remembering back to my Coast Guard tests from years ago where they would have questions on uncovered material to see how you handled exceptional situations. I remember inner workings of compass binnacles, flinders bars and such on the tests.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

There are still a few questions relating to compass binnacle part and proper care when not in use. Most of the surprise questions had to do with navgation on the Mississippi.

[@michaelhannan8305]

Congratulations Captain, I too, took the Mariners course, after I retired, just for the knowledge and satisfaction. I had no intention of using the license commercially. But 2 years ago, a boat builder in my area bought two of the Tiki boats from a Florida outfit. Best part time job you could ever ask for.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks for sharing. You never know what life brings.

[@yesyoga]

Terrific video. Congratulations CAPTAIN 🎉

[@briancostello]

Congratulations Ed. And perfect timing! I’m starting my online (zoom) 100 ton course on 1/2/23!! I can retire from my current job in 12 years. And I plan to pivot into local and long distance yacht delivery.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you! I did not know they had Zoom classes. That is interesting. I probably should have taken my Master at the same time.

[@briancostello]

@@tryingnottosink9107 I wonder if you can “add” on? I luckily got some good advise from a few friends who are captains already. They told me to just go straight for master. I was planning on just 6-pack at first.

[@robhowen]

Congratulations, Captain! Great video and we have very similar motivations. I also completed my work through Mariners Learning System and I'm just about ready to submit everything for my license.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Congratulations! It was difficult but worth the effort!

[@robhowen]

@@tryingnottosink9107 I totally agree. I believe I am a better boater now, although hours at the helm are irreplaceable.

[@jetmechgirl9022]

Congratulations Ed. You’re gonna be a great Captain

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you!

[@FloridaYachtInsuranceGuy]

Congrats!! Just got mine a month ago. Great experience.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks. It was definitely worth the effort!

[@jcuslidge]

Wow! Congratulations! Getting all your scores 92% and above and pushing 6O? Sounds like you're still sharp. And, as always your video is well worth watchingand ing=formative. Good job!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks. I was surprised I did that well. It was definitely worth the effort!

[@76captaint]

Congratulations, Capt. Ed! I am a USCG Licensed 2nd Mate Unlimited Tonnage and Master 1,600GRT/3,000GT Oceans and can say that you have made a great accomplishment. Bravo! See you out there!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you! It was well worth the effort. See you on the water!

[@jwwj30]

Congratulations Captain Ed! I’ve seen most of your videos, you are already a very knowledgeable & responsible person. Your test scores only validate how intelligent you really are. I’m sure Lyn must be very proud of you. Well it’s Christmas Eve, time to go to bed, can’t wait for your next videos about your trip down to the Keys. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you. And thank you for joining us on this adventure. Merry Christmas!

[@Lowcountryyankee]

Thank for making this. Presentation was clear and full of good information.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

You are welcome!

[@andyinottawa651]

Lol love the reference to "Q" 🤣

[@tryingnottosink9107]

We're big TNG fans!

[@doncritzer2798]

No mention of how you studied for the drug test part......Congratulations Captain Eddy (&Lynn) Merry Christmas

[@tryingnottosink9107]

That was definitely the hardest part! Merry Christmas!

[@jeffp7454]

Very well documented video 🙌I just completed my oupv license and stumbled on your video. Your narrative hit the mark on all aspects of getting your license, even to the point of having unknown questions thrown in and your stress at the time of taking the test. I took an in person class and took the test at an mmc center and was scared silly with odd ball questions I've never heard of or even able to look up. Well done video sir 👊

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks!

[@lilricky2515]

Marniers, while being very robust, tends to be a bit slow in updating their guides in respect to Coast Guard rule changes. Not surprised you had those 15 questions that you weren't prepared for.

[@haroldconnell2973]

Great video, start my course in January

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Best of luck! It was well worth the effort!

[@patrickg.5930]

Congratulations, well done. You can now ride the high seas, lol, lol.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you!

[@rikspector]

Argghhhh Captain, It's time to raise The Jolly Rodger(that's the flag!! snort, snort and head for the Caribbean:) You passed with flying colors. A wonderful Christmas yo you and your Matey. Cheers, Rik Spector

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Avast ye, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[@timcordts2118]

Hi Captain Ed, nice video overviewing attaining a USCG Captain License. My Masters license certainly helped on reducing insurance cost as it should for anyone. Then my wife and I did run our own boat in 2 passenger term charter service with us as the crew in the Virgins. That was through clearing house and brokers and the whole ball of wax for almost 6 years. Then in about 2011, the Maritime Coastguard Agency (that is the government entity of Great Britain providing license similar to USCG) in the BVI started pushing for charter boats (such as ours, based in US system) to attain MCA standards to certify the boat and the crew. I had a USCG STCW (STCW is an international rating) endorsement which got me by for a couple of years and I was in process of attaining my MCA certification starting with the boat. For that, we had to haul in the BVI and had MCA inspectors actually inspect our boat. USCG/Underwriters Laboratory inspected safety equipment (for example, flares) are not accepted. Had to buy SOLAS flares and equipment. My opinion, this whole move by the MCA was market protectionism against US based charter boats working in BVI waters. Homeland Security standards on top of Jones Act was the last straw for them is seems. So why do I include this information? Because I've just experienced the next turn of the screw by MCA. I still have my license and these days, my wife and I, in retirement like to charter a bareboat in Europe to go sailing. My USCG license was sufficient for this for many years. (Just a note: Chartering a Bareboat may not be used in any commercial capacity. Illegal to charge people money to go sailing on a Bareboat no matter what your license. Cost share is accepted but be very clear, it's cost share.) In recent years, the Royal Yachting Association along with the MCA have convinced the European Union, Bareboat Charter Companies and their Insurance Underwriters abroad to deem any USCG issued document as insufficient for Bareboat Charter...Well, that's annoying at the very least. So now, the only way to charter a Bareboat in Europe (and some other countries) is to achieve an RYA sanctioned qualification such as an International Certificate of Competency (ICC) or Sailing License Credential (SLC). I've just completed this and it was challenging with very few certified evaluators in the entire US. The ICC folks in Ft Lauderdale only certify for power boats of 10 Meters or larger. No sailboats at all. ASA certification is also not recognized any more. Anyhow, you did a great video on this and I thought you and some of your viewers might benefit by being aware of this new, next level.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you for the information. That is very interesting. I guess I won't be chartering a bareboat in Europe any time soon. Which is a shame because I considered doing that in the future.

[@timcordts2118]

@@tryingnottosink9107 But hey!! You can achieve this other license. It’s discouraging about our (US) standing…and this bunch of EU guys really are a negative…but if you want to do it, like anything, you have to move toward it dear sir. To me, it’s worth it. Greece remains as a place (as they say “on the edge of Christendom”) a world of wonder and yachtsman’s challenge. It’s very special. Do it if you are able.

[@lutherprince9304]

Congrats on your captain’s license Ed!! Now Lynn will feel safe 😂 Happy Holidays to you both!🥂

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you! Happy holidays!

[@lancer525]

I had a friend who always said he'd never need paper charts, because he had three chartplotters and his I phone. Didn't even have any on the boat that I was aware of. Got struck by lightning off Williams Island in the Bahamas, and it blanked _every_ electronic device on the boat. All of them.

[@jgwinks]

That's why the CG requires you to know how to do it on paper. You'll probably never have to do it, but you have to know how.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

That is interesting. We keep paper charts on board for all the areas we travel. Until now, they were not useful since I really did not know how to use them. I plan to try navigating that way once in a while, just to keep in practice.

[@esiebert7625]

Congrats Ed and happy holidays! 🎉

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you. Happy Holidays!

[@steveknight7680]

Good for you! great choice since cruising can get dangerous as you have found several times. I commend you for wanting to be ready for whatever comes up one the high seas. Shows you take things seriously. CONGRATULATIONS on 60 years young. I am 70. Great channel I enjoy watching. THANK YOU AND YOUR WIFE. Steve rhome tx.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks for your kind words. It was definitely worth the effort!

[@TheFalconJetDriver]

Congratulations Ed. This a very nice accomplishment! You and Lynn have come along way since you bought the Carver! 😁🛫

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you. It has been an interesting 6 years and we have learned a lot along the way,

[@stevepittman9109]

Great video, as always. Deb and I are awaiting the delivery of our new Fountaine Pajot MY6 in February. I find watching videos such as the ones you produce to be not only entertaining, but also a helpful learning experience. Thanks. Is that the "Search for the Holy Grail" behind you? Nice touch!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

What a great boat. We're jealous! Perhaps we'll see you on the water this coming year. Yes, that is The Holy Grail behind me. I figure people are going to look at the background so I may as well put up one of my favorite movies.

[@sailingcardinalpoints]

Congratulations Ed! This is something I've also been considering for a while. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks. Happy holidays!

[@bobpiccoli4724]

Congrats Captain, while I have sailed or raced sailboats all my life, my wife insisted that I have take and pass the captains test before I could buy my "big boy" boat, or she would NOT sail with me!!! Yes I did way those options, but decided better, and took and passed my 100 Ton Master. I believe it was one of the toughest tests that I ever have take despite sailing since I was 10 years old. However, I encourage all boaters to take and pass at least the 6 pack test just for the knowledge, confidence, and professionalism on the water. Also helps with the insurance!! I have followed your travels and experiences for a couple of years now, and one of these days hopefully we will find ourselves in the same port, and will have to hoist one or two together !!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

No that was a difficult choice! 😁 I was surprised at how difficult the test was. I have certifications/licenses for accounting, financial adviser, insurance, etc. but found that the Captain's Test more challenging.

[@festerofest4374]

Congratulations - that's fantastic! What a lot of work you invested in getting your Captain's License. I knew there are levels of qualification for various levels of seamanship but didn't know the specifics so that was interesting to learn about. All of this makes you that much more competent on the water and I've liked how you and Lyn take everything seriously to navigate and have a safe time out on the ocean. You were going back to school, and I get the impression you enjoyed the challenge. Your Roger Out score for this episode is a 10, because you did the work and earned it! Merry Christmas!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Merry Christmas. It was well worth the effort, and yes, I do enjoy a challenge. One of the reasons I took up boating.

[@carlrhodes9040]

Best informational video yet!! Exactly what I've been wanting to do and you took some of the guesswork out, awesome. After sending the massive amount of paper work into the Coast Guard, let us know what they send you in return.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

A red passport!

[@crowdfundcrew]

Ha Q! Love sci-fi bits and the scenes on the TV in background! Congratulations captain! As a self gift, it’s great to have confidence in your knowledge but also to have that validated with your license. Lots of study time, but I’m assuming for you a lot was review of what you had already gained with your experience. I think the plotting part is good to know what the technology is doing for you. Congrats again. Join The Crew

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Yes! Thank you! It was definitely worth the effort! Sometimes I get bored editing videos so I throw something in to entertain myself!

[@timmyscroggins1962]

Does this mean you're going to start drinking "Captain Morgan" ? LOL 😆 🤣 🍸

[@tryingnottosink9107]

I am relabeling the bottle to "Captain Ed!"

[@craigc.7033]

Awesome video. Ive wanted to get my lisc. as well, just as a personal goal. Like that blanket on your couch, I have the same one. 😀😀😀

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you. The blanket matches some winter curtains that we put up. As you can tell, Lyn likes color.

[@mikeloughran5196]

I have always wondered about Captains tests. Now I know, thank-you very much.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Happy to help!

[@herbm8709]

That darn Q messes with you and Picard!!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Apparently the trial never actually ended!

[@nicvanorton6795]

Congrats, Captain. Great accomplishment, I wish I had the hours to take the course and test.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you!

[@jonahbowles7341]

Good for you! This adds credibility to your adventures (from a former Coast Guard career officer).

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks!

[@captainkttyhwk]

took my captains course last Nov (2022) 3 out of the 12 people in the class passed it...I was one of them. yaye!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

It was surprisingly difficult.

[@karaDee2363]

Congrats on your captain's license! It's funny that I've been boating my entire life and never even gave a thought of getting my captain's license... My book knowledge came from Chapman's book of seamanship, and I learned how to navigate/plot courses on paper charts which I did proficiently for many years long before electronic navigational plotters including GPS became available.... When I got a Loran-C, I thought that was the best thing since sliced bread...lol So even with all my experience, I have no plans of getting a captain's license since my boating is for personal pleasure, not paid.. but who knows what's in my future.. over and out......Skol 🥂🍸🍹

[@tryingnottosink9107]

We still have a Loran onboard. The screen is so dim that we can't read it. Skol!

[@franka3468]

Ed, Nice video. Does having the 6 pack license impact your boat insurance positively or negatively?

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Not sure yet, we renew our insurance in February.

[@knecting]

If you plan on using your license to charter, you betcha your insurance rates will significantly increase, otherwise if it’s just something you personally want to do, be sure to let them know you will not be using license to charter or for any other commercial uses.

[@nickb5914]

In Florida if you do the boaters safety course it has a positive effect. I can't imagine extra knowledge would negatively effect it.

[@dfarrar23]

Very thorough, thank you so much for sharing your adventure through licensing. Really did get a lot of information out of this. Thank you so much sir.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Glad it was helpful!

[@endlessflorida]

Great video! I can’t wait to do this! Thank you so much! Congratulations! Now you can finish watching Monty Python and the Holy Grail! 🤣

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Glad you found the video helpful. Now runaway, runaway!

[@stevenbrannen1568]

Linux and Search for the Holy Grail, Love it. Oh and Congrats.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

I figured if people were going to look at the background I may as well put one of my favorite movies up.

[@stevenbrannen1568]

@@tryingnottosink9107 Then you and I could get along just fine then. I enjoy the laughs.

[@ronaldsimmons8346]

thanks for that clear presentation, enjoyed it, and congrats

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@dandersonjr]

I took a 100 ton Masters with towing in person about 18 years ago. Plotting was the hardest for me and I passed but life had changed in the mean time so I never actually sent the paperwork in to get the license. I don't regret taking the course though. I think it was about 800 bucks back then.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

It was definitely worth the time and effort.

[@therapienautique5532]

Love the Monty Python Holy Grail photo in background. Normal decor or Easter Egg?

[@tryingnottosink9107]

An Easter Egg. Any time you see the TV in my land home, it is showing one of my favorite movies.

[@gque021]

I have a 500-ton Master's License for work, and I must say... I HATE PLOTTING! My next step is to upgrade to a 1600-ton Master's License, which is only a 70-question test. This was a great summary, but too bad I can't use the program you did.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

I probably should have gone for my 100 ton.

[@deancastor]

Congrats. I got my 6 pack in 2021. I used Mariners Learning system also.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

That is awesome!

[@foreveroldsmobile9874]

I am currently going through the Mariner's System. Thank's for the review. Mariner's is suppose to be the best online course. And Congrats!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Glad it was helpful! Good luck!

[@dionmorrow5271]

Great video. Great info. Those hours needed surprise me. I'm north so that is hard. Congratulations

[@tryingnottosink9107]

It is very hard for us northerners who can only boat for half the year. Thanks for watching.

[@rodstanley881]

I did the same thing and I own just a pontoon boat I really learned a lot oh I did pass now looking for a big boat

[@tryingnottosink9107]

It was definitely worth the effort!

[@johnbruenn8755]

Congratulations Ed!!! 🏆 👏👏👏

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks!!

[@mess40]

I thought the same thing about Aids to Navigation when I took it 4 years ago. Also a MLS Alum. I was like I don't remember any of this shit lol. Crazy I wasn't the only one..got an 86 percent oj it but it had me stressed!

[@CharleyGeorge]

the crazy thing about me getting my captains license was the fact I was 18. I had so many years on boats and driving boats as a kid. I was totally lucky and took a course given by the local Commandant of the local Coast Guard station. He loved me being 18 taking and passing the course thinking it was really impressive for a person my age at the time lol getting a license. I past the tests like you with very high scores.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

That was a great experience!

[@CharleyGeorge]

@@tryingnottosink9107 yeah it was a great experience. The Commandant was super cool and the people in the class were cool as heck as well. I never sailed in my life before but I learned a whole bunch of things about it. I also learned a little more about charts and such.

[@CharleyGeorge]

I would love to chat about your experience and what you like about taking the exam

[@amroz6237]

Great video, thank you for sharing such great information!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@michaelmcilrath9466]

Thank you, very nicely explained!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@richardbender7384]

Congratulations and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you! Merry Christmas!

[@bigtime37ja]

Congrats on your license. Merry Christmas

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you! Merry Christmas!

[@JamesSmith-jr2rc]

Captain Ed...your wife can now introduce you as such. Great job.

[@jgwinks]

"Captain" is a military rank, there's actually no such thing in the Merchant Marine. The correct term is "Master". One of the courses I taught was in a fishing lodge and the owner was a student. As I was explaining that I heard his wife say from the back of the room "I'll call him "Captain", no way I'm calling him "Master" ".

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thanks! I believe her correct introduction should be " Captain, My Captain!"

[@tryingnottosink9107]

That would be Lyn's response as well!

[@JBAutomotive794]

Wow this video flew in at the right time. Cheers Captain🍻

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Glad you liked it!

[@captainkrunch6372]

Congratulations on Captain license, BZ.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you!

[@billmead5052]

Congratulations! I got my 100 Ton through the same company. I'd rate them as a "C" because I think they should have more illustrations to help us visual learners.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you. I probably should have gone for my 100 ton as well since I would probably qualify.

[@musictheoryexcel7578]

GOOD JOB ! CONGRATULATIONS ED !

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you so much 😀

[@James2RTX]

Congratulations! I'm working on mine right now. I don't know exactly what I will do with it, but as my dad used to say, "Knowledge for Knowledge's sake!" or maybe it was Jack of all Trades....yada, yada, yada

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Good luck! It was well worth the effort!

[@anthonyferrara2222]

Congratulations. 🎉 A great accomplishment.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you!

[@MikeyDee25]

Congrats Cap'n! Now you need your Masters license!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

I probably should have done both at the same time. Not that I need either. I have no plans to do this commercially.

[@MikeyDee25]

@@tryingnottosink9107 It's not a matter of doing it for commercial gain, but for gleaning more knowledge about boat handling and seamanship. 😇

[@gordmccormack]

Nicely done !! Hats off to you!!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you!

[@dennisd6527]

Congratulations! Well done Captain.

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you!

[@peteranderson6172]

Congratulations !!!! Well done

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you so much 😀

[@bobwelter8970]

Congratulations Ed!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

Thank you!

[@mstarnes1]

I just retired and am going thru MLS for the OUPV license. I love deep sea fishing in the OBX of North Carolina but just want to expand my brain a bit. I liked the little videos for the Rules of the Road section. What materials did you use for the Deck General section. I just printed out the sections MLS provided in PDF format but wasn't sure I could learn as well about knots from a print out as opposed to a video. Congratulation on passing with such impressive scores!!

[@tryingnottosink9107]

I did not use the books that they sent me at all. I just watched, and read, their online material. And did their practice quizzes until I could score above 90 on all of them.