Need some advice new to boating

[Rentsaks]

Hello,
I live on Camano Island, WA and would like to one day purchase a boat so we can tour the San Juan Islands, etc.

My problem is I have no power boating experience. In order to charter a boat I need experience, in order to get experience I need to rent or charter a boat.

I could purchase a boat on craigslist or some where like that and learn as I go, but I want to be proficient before I purchase and regret it. Also, I think it would be better for my passengers and other people boating around me if I knew what the heck I was doing.

I have searched for "boating classes" around here but have had little luck. Power squadron and the like have no classes on their calendars.

I don't have any friends here that have a boat.

Any suggestions?

Thank you!!
Scott

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Scott.

[gamayun]

Welcome! Even a small runabout with engine would give you a bit of the experience you seek. I'm not aware of anyone taking power boat classes on the water. Most just go. Ask your local Coast Guard Auxiliary to see if they'll put on one of their "Safe Boating Skills and Seamanship" courses. If there's enough interest, they should be able to offer this.