Who’s Who at Confident Captain: Meet Captain Kent

If you’re new to Confident Captain, welcome aboard. You might be wondering who I am and who is behind the Confident Captain brand. My name is Captain Kent Dresser, and I’ve spent the last 30 years navigating the waters—both literally and professionally—to help mariners like you build successful careers at sea. Like many of you, […]
Book Review: The Confessions of a Rum-Runner by Eric Sherbrooke Walker

A Captain’s Take on a Classic Smuggling Tale I knew I was in for a good read when I hit the first chapter and found out that Walker’s career in rum-running started at a nautical training center for captains. As the owner of a legitimate training facility for the past 20+ years, I had to […]
Too Busy to Get Your Captain’s License? Here’s How to Fit It Into Your Life (Without Losing Your Sanity)
You’re busy. I get it. Between work, family, and everything else life throws at you, finding time to earn your Captain’s License might seem impossible. But here’s the thing—busy people get it done all the time. If you’re dreaming of upgrading your skills, launching a new career, or finally making your time on the water […]
Confident Captain Alumni: Erica Bartos

Capt. Erica has a variety of experience on ships all over New England and the Caribbean but is also an educator with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. For the past thirteen years, Erica has been teaching middle and high school science and math while also working in the marine industry. She […]
Success on Your Schedule: Why You Should Take Online Captain’s License Courses with a Coaching Program

Many find the thought of returning to a classroom unappealing, which can discourage them from pursuing further education or career advancement. For others, busy lives filled with family, work, and personal obligations make it seem impossible to fit in. Today’s marine professionals require licensing courses that accommodate their demanding schedules. That’s why those pursuing a […]
Confident Captain Alumni: Where are they now? Fred Roy

Fred Roy is a lifelong sailor and a marine-industry professional. He recently completed Confident Captain’s courses for the 100-ton captain’s license exam, as well as for the sailing and towing endorsements. Despite his wealth of seafaring knowledge, Fred found that these courses helped him to learn even more, stay sharp, and successfully pass his exams. […]
Is a Captain’s License Valid in All 50 States? Understanding State Boating Licenses vs. the USCG Merchant Mariner Credential

If you’re new to boating or considering becoming a licensed captain, understanding the types of boating licenses can clarify which training you need and how to legally operate in your state. What is a State Boating License? In many states, a boating license or safety certificate is required for recreational boaters—those who go on the […]
Master the Rules of the Road with Our Free Flashcard Download!

Get ready to pass your captain’s course with confidence. Confident Captain is here to make studying easier and more effective with our free, downloadable flashcards—designed by industry experts to help you master the Rules of the Road and other key concepts quickly and efficiently. Here’s How It Works: Simply sign up below to download the […]
Confident Captain Alumni: Where are they now? Kate Somers

This month, we’re spotlighting one of our own—Kate Somers! Kate obtained her Master’s captain’s license while simultaneously helping us build our online courses. With an extensive sailing background as a racer, cruiser, and coach, coupled with her expertise in web development and a master’s in educational media and technology, Kate seamlessly integrates her passions into […]
Do I Need a Captain’s License for My Personal Boat?

Understanding the regulations surrounding boating can be as challenging as navigating the waterways themselves. One area of confusion for many recreational boaters is the difference between state boating licenses and the USCG Merchant Mariner Credential, commonly known as a Captain’s license. Let’s clarify these requirements and their implications. State Boating License vs. USCG Merchant Mariner […]