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I want to move to USVI and possibly participate in the tourism industry.
I know nothing about boating but I would love to learn
(maybe as an apprentice?)
it is a dream of mine to one day have my own craft and take people on more private mini-cruise excursions
I also love animals and would love to be involved in ANY way with the local sealife encounters as well
SO....where do I start?
I already ordered the Settlers Guide but I was hoping maybe you could tell me what steps I need to take to make this happen/sacrifices necessary
....as well as possible money to be made by doing my own tours later down the road
(Im picturing it as a nice way to retire)
I am 33 right now and by the time im ready to call it a day I will hopefully have my craft/tour programs in full swing...and can kinda-sorta retire while still making money and staying active in the island scene.
Also...could you possibly steer me to resources for how one would become proficient in nautical matters as well as learning the local laws and regs
anything you can tell me would be great
Thanxc in advance
Jason Clayton
Posted : May 4, 2003 8:37 pm
When it comes to learning nautical stuff, the Coast Guard would be your best resource. They do have classes and seminars and stuff to educate people on the ways of the water. After that, the local marina folks could guide you in the right direction.
As for local sealife encounters, you might want to check out Coral World on STT and see if they have any openings or check with the local college's marine science department and see what they say.
Apprenticeship on a boat would mean a lot of legwork going to different outfitters and presenting yourself as someone they could use and be a benefit to them. Of course you have to be knowlegable in nautical matters. Which then takes you back to nautical classes..... at the Coast Guard perhaps?
Good luck!
Posted : May 5, 2003 3:28 am
Hello,
A nice "mini-excursion tour eco-encounter" type of experience is Buck Island in St. Croix. People line up for boat trips, and snorkeling guides to the underwater national monument every tourist season. There's an amazing amount of sealife there, and it's not a difficult boat trip. Might be a nice start for a novice seaman. Good Luck!
Bless Up,
J.
Posted : May 5, 2003 12:40 pm
Jason,
If you're really serious, and depending on where you live, you can probably start taking classes offered at local areas. Try contacting the US Coast Guard, or someone from the BOAT US(Boat Owners Assoc. of The US). Additionally, if you're thinking about carrying passenger yourself, vis-a-vis hiring a captain, you will have to have your captain's license. I woudl definitely get in touch with a couple of the peole that are already doing what you plan to do. You can get the best pointers from people who have gone through the process once or twice.
Good luck.
Posted : May 5, 2003 2:24 pm
Coast Guard has my vote too for best place to get educated about boating.
There is something called Safe Boating Week and its usually the Coast Guard, Fish and Wildlife, Costal Zone Management that have it set up. Coast Guard doing the boating and the other two the effects on the environment.
Sea Encounters - Coral World - if you know how to scuba dive you can dive in the tanks and feed the fish/rays... you can also be part of the other non-dive animal exhibits...
Well where to start, read through the online information, read through the book. Save up some money back home where you are to pay for the first say month being in the islands. It is hard to find an apartment from away so you will need to stay in a hotel sort of place for the first week or so while you find something more perminant. Think about whether you will move your car and personal effects, furniture... Think about work possibilities maybe call and fax your resume... jobs are also easier to get once on island thus the saving of money while you find a place and a job.
You can call the Coast Guard St. Thomas at (340)7763497 and see if they can mail you information, give you a web site maybe, tell you about instruction/classes they offer - if you could start whereever you are and then continue on island...
Good Luck!! --Islander
Posted : May 5, 2003 5:35 pm
Jason: A couple of other ideas:
1. You can get a crew job (mate) on a day boat and build up hours for your Captain's license.
2. You can work for one of the other tourist businesses like snorkel tours, kayak tours, beach attendant...
3. Do you have other kinds of talents? Scuba certification? Waverunner knowledge? Marine engine fixing ability? These are all in demand.
4. The idea about Coral World is excellent...
4. Join the St Thomas Yacht Club and learn to sail!
Posted : May 6, 2003 8:02 pm
Jason,
I have been doing research on acquiring a Captain's License, and have found that there are two ways of getting. The first would be to go to a Coast Guard Testing Center (about 10 on the mainland) and take the test out right. You don't have to take a class, but you would find it hard to pass with out a class. The second way is by taking classes. I am signing up for a course through "Great Lakes Charter Training", which is on the web but you can reach them at (800)227-8635. The course runs $695.00 and then an additional $295.00 to take the test. The hard part about getting your OUPV License (commonly referred to as a "6 Pack-License) is proving your hours. You need be able to log 360 days on the water, 90 of which need to be with in the last three years.
GOOD LUCK, and see you down there!!!
Posted : May 7, 2003 4:46 pm
To work as a charter boay captain in the USVI you will most likely need a masters license, and an STCW. Without a masters you can't go international to the BVI's. And I dont know any charter company that doesnt go to the BVI's.
So dont show up without a masters, and an STCW. If you do your in for a BIG dissapointment.
Posted : May 7, 2003 11:45 pm
