Happy Captain Faq
I see you’re suggesting we take an online boater safety course prior to our lesson, why is that?
During your lesson, we are happy to review your online education and answer any questions. However, in an effort to deliver the best experience, we encourage you to have some knowledge of the rules of the road—or water—and related areas of safety. Plus, the courses are great and well worth your time!
Why do you recommend we contact our insurance company prior to a lesson?
We expect only the best outcomes from a lesson with Happy-Captain, but boating is not without its risks. It’s always a great idea to make sure your policy covers the instructor while they’re onboard your boat.
You mention a brief safety inspection of the boat on the day of the lesson, what happens if my boat fails?
Our safety inspection is not a replacement or substitute for a proper one performed by a certified agency, but rather a brief inspection to assure our safety while on your boat. Please keep yourself and your guests safe by having your boat inspected annually by a certified inspector. If your boat requires something more substantial than time allows, you will have the opportunity to reschedule, though you may be subject to a rebooking fee.
Are the lessons weather dependent?
They most certainly are, as are all boating days. You will be in contact with your instructor prior to the lesson, so you will be able to form a contingency plan.
Can I bring a friend along for the lesson?
Yes, you can, but it is recommended that you limit it to 1-2 additional people. Our lessons are hands-on, so the more people you bring the less time you may have to practice the drills.
I would like to improve my boating skills, but I don’t own a boat.
You are in luck, we run bi-monthly group instruction in many of our locations, please check with your local Happy-Captain partner marina or drop us a line to learn more.
How much should I tip the instructor?
It is customary to tip 15-20% based on your satisfaction with the instruction.
Can I continue my instruction at multiple locations?
Absolutely. You can always hop into a group lesson or if you and your boat find yourself wintering somewhere wonderful and want to continue your progress, please drop us a note.
I am struggling in a few specific areas. Can we adapt the lesson to work primarily on those areas?
The answer is yes! We are here to improve your skills and are happy to concentrate a lesson just on those areas where you feel you need some practice.
My significant other and I are at very different points on the learning curve, what do you suggest?
This is certainly not uncommon. I would suggest you take the initial instruction together so we can document a baseline. At the conclusion, your instructor will have a great idea of next steps so you and your partner get the most from each lesson.
Does Happy-Captain offer any relationship or marriage counseling, because our arguing is taking much of the fun out of our boating experience.
We are not counselors, but we can help! You will gain some communication tips and the knowledge to understand how to best assist the captain in a moment’s notice, often before things escalate.
I would like to learn with other students of the same level, is that possible?
Absolutely. Our participating marinas and boat clubs offer our bi-weekly group instruction that is a mix of Women on the Water, Dudes Who Dock, and traditional curriculum designed to keep advancing your skills.
Will I be better looking after a few lessons with Happy-Captain?
No, you will not. However, your confidence will be soaring, so you have that going for you!