A study of basic nautical terminology and legal requirements of vessels.
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.”
Identification and understanding of the use of Aids to Navigation on waterways.
The theory of operation of both sail and power driven vessels.
Review of Boating Laws and Regulations as pertain to vessels.
The application of vessel emergency procedures to vessel operations.
Practical applications and techniques in towing and anchoring.
Sail theory and practical application.
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.
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 “hands on” in the Chapman School’s engine shop facility and on our vessels.
Practical “hands on” instruction in basic boat repair and prevention. Topics include varnishing and painting techniques, fiberglass care and repair.
A “hands-on” approach to learning and maintaining various electrical/mechanical systems onboard most types of vessels. The training includes identification, tracking, drawing and developing inspection and maintenance procedures for equipment such as engines, generators, water makers, air conditioners, AC/DC distribution systems, fresh and hot water systems, waste systems, galley equipment, steering and control systems, and many other systems found throughout a vessel. Cargo operation, 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.
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.
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.
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 theory and operation of power and sail boats. Instruction in all basic aspects of boat handling and safety procedures,building on theoretical skills learned. This practical training includes dockside procedures, underway maneuvering, anchoring, and man overboard drills.
Assessment & sign off of competencies by qualified instructors through practical demonstration of skills by students as listed in log book and asssessment sheets.
Simulated exercises incorporating “real world” vessel conditions, vessel traffic, obstacles and lack of visibility.
Individual shipboard responsibilities, teamwork, communications, health & hygiene, safety equipment, oil pollution and waste regulations, and handling shipboard emergencies.
Designed to teach students the principles of survival at sea.
Prepares student in emergency treatment of injuries that can occur in a Maritime or Industrial environment.
Students learn the theory & application of shipboard firefighting.
Please note that Firefighting is held at Port Canaveral Maritime Academy.
Provides the knowledge required for crew members involved in working at port facilities and on vessels. Includes the meaning and requirements of the different security levels; emergency procedures & contingency plans; recognition & detection of weapons, dangerous substances, & devices; recognition on a non-discriminatory basis of the characteristics and behavioral patterns of persons likely to threaten security; & 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.