USCG Captains Licensing, On-Water and Safety Courses & Traditional Maritime Arts Workshops in Clayton, NY
The objective of the Antique Boat Museum (ABM) is to collect, preserve, study and interpret objects related to the fresh water nautical history of small craft (less than 100′) of North America, with emphasis on the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding area.
The 4.5 acre campus is located on the banks of the majestic St. Lawrence River in the picturesque riverside village of Clayton, NY. The galleries are overflowing with unique and beautifully-preserved examples of great North American watercraft. From May to October each year, the campus comes alive with boat shows, regattas, childrens' activities, guided tours, boat-building classes and a wealth of other programs and events.
You can learn to sail, get your captain’s license, build a boat with your family, or get your NY State boater safety certificate with the education and training programs at the Museum. All courses have a low instructor-student ratio, and are taught on and around the beautiful waterfront campus.
Training Programs
USCG Licensing (by The Captains School)
- OUPV/6-Pack Captain’s Licensing: Taught by expert instructors from The Captain School, this course prepares you for the US Coast Guard captain’s licensing exam for an un-inspected passenger vessel license and offers the final exam on site at the Museum. Course study areas include: general seamanship, Rules of the Road , chart navigation, code of federal regulations, and weather.
- Master Licensing: Upgrade your OUPV license to a Master license with this course. This license allows you to operate in bays, rivers, and inland lakes and is issued in 25, 50, and 100 gross ton increments. The course will be taught by The Captain School and the exam will be given on the last day.
- Towing Endorsement Course: This license allows you to operate in bays, rivers, inland lakes, and near shore and is issued up to 100 gross tons. The exam will be given at the Museum at the conclusion of the course.
Boat Shop Programs
- ABM & ACBS Symposium: Every May, the Antique Boat Museum and the Antique & Classic Boat Society welcome boating enthusiasts of all stripes to Clayton for a weekend of learning and camaraderie.
Maritime Arts Workshops
- Decorative Knot Tying: This introductory course will teach the most common maritime knots, as well as some decorative knots.
- Paddle Making: Carve your own kayak or canoe paddle.
- Paddle Painting: Students will paint a 1000 Islands river scene on a wooden paddle.
Sailing Programs
- Beginner Sailing: This week-long class teaches basic sailing terminology and technique as well as safety on the water.
- Junior & Advanced Junior Sailing
- Sailing & Rowing Opportunities
Other Programs
- St. Lawrence River Skiff Experiences
- US Coast Guard Auxiliary Classes
- Boater Safety
- Waterfowl Hunting & Boating Safety
- Youth Programs
LAST UPDATED ON Jan 5, 2020