The Masters license allows you to operate an inspected passenger vessel having a Certificate Of Inspection (COI) stating the number of passengers and area of operation. This would typically include small ferries, sightseeing vessels, head boats, and launches at yacht clubs.
The Masters license will have an Inland or Near Coastal designation based on the bodies of water where you have obtained your sea experience. Inland will allow you to operate inside the Boundary Line with paying passengers, and Near Coastal allows you to operate up to 200 miles from shore with paying passengers.
Course includes books, instruction, exams, and assistance with the Coast Guard application.
Eligibility Requirements:
USCG Application
Age: 19 years old
Current and unexpired OUPV or Master Inland license
Sea Experience:
Master 25/50/100 Ton* Inland
- 360 underway days**
- 90 days of the 360 must be within the last 3 years.
Master 25/50/100 Ton* Near Coastal
- 720 underway days**
- 360 days of the 720 must be upon near coastal or ocean waters
- 90 days of the 720 must be within the last 3 years
* Tonnage will be based on the size vessels on which you are claiming sea time. Contact New England Maritime for tonnage formulas.
** A "day" is considered 4 to 8 hours away from the dock.
Course Attendance: 90% required
Testing: All testing is done with New England Maritime. You DO NOT test with the Coast Guard. You are required to take a single deck exam.
Certification: Upon successful completion (meeting all attendance and passing required exams), you will receive a New England Maritime Certificate of Training. This Certificate, which expires one year from date issued, must be submitted to the U.S. Coast Guard REC in Boston with your Coast Guard application to upgrade your Merchant Mariner Credential.
Deposit Required: $500.00
Course Dates: New England Maritime offers Coast Guard-approved upgrade courses in the fall, winter, and spring. Classes meet three times a week for 7 sessions, 3.5 hours each session. Contact the school for exact start dates. In-person, proctored exams will be scheduled by appointment in Hyannis.
All testing associated with this course must be completed no later than 90 days from the completion of the knowledge-based portion of the training or the course must be retaken at full price.
Location: 232 Main Street, Hyannis, MA 02601