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2026
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Master the Water with Hands-On Instruction from Captain Stuart McKenzie
Operating a boat involves more than just turning a key; it requires confidence, technical skill, and a deep understanding of safety protocols. At Captain Stu Charters, we move beyond the classroom to provide practical, on-the-water training designed to make you a more capable and composed operator.
Whether you are a new owner or looking to sharpen your handling, learning from a United States Coast Guard certified Captain ensures you gain insights that only decades of professional experience can provide.
Professional Guidance You Can Trust
Captain Stuart McKenzie brings an elite level of expertise to every lesson. With a 50-ton Master Mariner’s Credential and 20 years of navigation enforcement experience on the Hudson River, he understands the nuances of water safety from both an operator and an instructor's perspective.
As a New York State certified Boater Safety Instructor, Captain Stu focuses on real-world application. You will learn how to anticipate potential issues before they arise and, more importantly, how to safely navigate out of challenging situations.
Focused, Practical Skills
Our lessons are strictly hands-on. We skip the dry textbooks and get straight to the maneuvers that matter most. During your time on the water, we will work on:
- Precision Docking: Master the art of bringing your vessel in smoothly under various conditions.
- Close Quarters Operation: Navigate tight marinas and busy channels with ease.
- Safe Navigation & Chart Plotting: Learn to read the water and your instruments to plan a secure course.
- Boating Etiquette: Understand the unwritten rules of the water to ensure a respectful and safe environment for everyone.
Lesson Rates & Booking
Invest in your safety and confidence with personalized instruction tailored to your current skill level.
Precision Docking Master the art of bringing your vessel in smoothly under various conditions.
Close Quarters Operation Navigate tight marinas and busy channels with ease.
Safe Navigation & Chart Plotting Learn to read the water and your instruments to plan a secure course.
Boating Etiquette Understand the unwritten rules of the water to ensure a respectful and safe environment for everyone.
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