How to get a job sailing in Florida

[denverd0n]

If you are being paid to teach sailing aboard an auxiliary sailboat, then you must have a USCG license. If you are teaching aboard a sailboat that has no engine, or the students are not paying for the lessons, then you don't need a USCG license. This applies in all cases, regardless of the age of the students.

You can find a good flowchart that explains all of this here...
Become a Sailing Instructor - American Sailing Association

[belizesailor]

Originally Posted by FSMike

Unless the law has changed (entirely possible) I do not believe you need a USCG captains license to teach sailing. It is treated differently than carrying passengers for hire.

Depends on circumstances, and opinions vary even among sail training entities and different USCG districts.

See ASA's 2c here: http://www.asa.com/pdf/USCG-questions.pdf.

My view is that you should have your ticket to teach sailing, although in certain circumstances -- like an inland waters non-profit youth program -- it may not be legally required.

[KrisOfTheCreek]

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! I'll pass it along to him.

[rgscpat]

If the friend is looking to teach for an established sailing school, the school may have its own particular requirements, such as a USCG ticket, and instructor certification from whichever certifying group they are affiliated.