How far can I make it?

CaptPKilbride · Nov 9, 2016

Buck2.0.0 said: ↑

First, thank you OB. Your response went above what I was looking for and you've given me a lot to think about while I plan how to get my feet wet in yachting. Now with two votes in a presidential election, I think it's more than most can say

Why do I want to get into boating? The idea evolved starting from a year I spent in South Florida. I came across a few "boat towns" which was a new site. I'd make it a point to show it off when giving tours to visiting friends and family. They weren't nearly as wide-eyed as I hoped. The thought of working/owning a boat stuck and never settled.

I've been fortunate enough to travel across many countries and that bug never left. Any opportunity to venture somewhere I've never been is somewhat of a thrill. But to get paid for traveling on the open seas is a much of a fantasy as it is a fleeting. The work required is distant and I want to get rid of that.

I'm looking forward to long, physical and unforgiving hours if it means growth - which is what I've been lacking recently.

My answer may not be as strong as I'd like, but as with other points you've brought up, is great food for thought.

So where do I go from here? Do I gather certifications and training? Do I go around asking for work on docks? A bit of both?

My plan as of now is to move back down to SF, get what I need to show I'm committed (STCW 95, cert from Chapman's school, gym membership) and log as many hours at sea as I can. This is rough and malleable depending on the feedback I get.

Thank you for all of your responses. I see my "sun varnished white faces" comment wasn't received well... It was a not very funny joke and had no negative connotations attached to it. I didn't mean to offend anyone.
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Buck,
I think you have the beginnings of a good plan. Olderboater mentioned Cal Maritime in reference to your "SF" comment, can you clarify? SF could be San Francisco, or South Florida. South Florida might fit with your mention of getting cert from Chapman's school.

Chapman's school does have a good reputation, I have met one or two mariners starting out who said that it was a good place for them to immerse themselves in learning the trade. Just curious what your timetable is in your planning? I think you said you are in NY. You can get some of this training knocked out at SUNY Maritime in the Bronx, if you aren't ready to make he move down south just yet.

http://www.sunymaritime.edu/Academics/Continuing Education/BasicSafetyTraining

Olderboater has given some great advice here. It's all about attitude. Landing the first job takes luck, being in the right place at the right time. What you are able to do with that opportunity is up to you. It is obvious you "have the bug", as I call it, I have had it from a young age ... as I am sure most members here do as well ... we just plain love boats, boating, yachting ...

I echo Ranger42c's sentiment, I would like to see some more feedback from you. Let us know your thoughts on what advice and information has been given so far.

You should also start learning about what is needed to earn your first professional credentials. There is a wealth of information on the USCG website on how to get started. You will be looking at obtaining a TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential), getting an USCG Medical Certificate that requires a physical, and a Merchant Mariner Credential.

https://www.uscg.mil/nmc/about_us/brochures/MMC_brochure.pdf

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How far can I make it?

CaptPKilbride Senior Member