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BOATING BASICS: HANDS-ON BOAT TRAINING IN THE 1000 ISLANDS
Master the St. Lawrence River with Spicer Marine’s Boating Basics course. Designed specifically for adults who frequently spend time on the water but want more confidence at the helm, this course transforms passengers into proficient boaters.
Why Choose Our Boating Lessons?
Unlike a standard classroom course, our training provides hands-on experience aboard a Spicer Marine vessel. You’ll gain practical skills in:
Our sessions are led by Captain Amanda, a highly qualified instructor who brings a unique blend of maritime expertise and professional teaching experience. She holds a Merchant Mariner Credential as a Master of Vessels (up to 25GRT), and a Master’s degrees in Education from both St. Lawrence University and The College of William & Mary.
Course Details & Itinerary
Enrollment is limited to just four students per session to ensure personalized instruction during this three-hour comprehensive lesson. The class begins with pre-trip planning, including a safety gear walkthrough and dockside preparation, followed by real-world handling and navigation practice on open water, and concludes with hands-on docking techniques designed to build confidence and reduce stress at the dock. While not required, students are strongly encouraged to complete a New York State–recognized Safe Boater’s Certificate before attending, such as the free online boating safety course offered by BoatUS.
Arrival & Check-In Information
Please arrive promptly before 9:00 AM and check in at the Spicer Marine Office / Ship’s Store, located at 40616 Marina Rd., Clayton, NY 13624, where your instructor and classmates will meet you. Our team will greet you and provide a brief orientation before heading to the dock, and arriving on time ensures your group receives the full three hours of on-water instruction.
What to Bring
For a comfortable and safe experience on the St. Lawrence River, we recommend bringing sun protection such as high-SPF sunscreen and polarized sunglasses, along with a baseball cap or wide-brimmed hat (a chinstrap is recommended in windy conditions). A waterproof jacket or windbreaker is also helpful since temperatures can be cooler on open water, and non-slip, non-marking deck shoes or sneakers are the best footwear choice for stability on the boat.
Cancellation Policy
At Spicer Marine, we strive to make your 1000 Islands boating experience as flexible as possible. Boating Basics registrations may be canceled with at least 24 hours’ notice for a full refund minus non-refundable booking fees, and we kindly ask that you call or text (315) 686-3141 to notify us so we can offer your spot to someone on the waiting list. Safety on the St. Lawrence River is our top priority, and if a session is canceled due to hazardous weather in Clayton, NY, you will have the first option to reschedule during the current boating season or request a refund minus booking fees if rescheduling is not possible.