Online vs. Classroom Training for Your Captain’s License

Making the Right Choice with Mariners Learning System

Should I do online or classroom training?  

Choosing between online and classroom training for your captain’s license is a crucial decision. Both methods have their advantages, but it ultimately depends on your learning style, schedule, and personal preferences.

Online Training

Online courses are perfect for those with busy schedules or for those who prefer to study at their own pace. You can complete the course when it fits into your day, allowing you to work around your personal and professional life.

Online training allows you to learn at your own pace - some students may find that classroom courses move too quickly or too slowly, whereas online classes allow you to move at your own speed. Additionally, the convenience of online learning means you can take the course from anywhere with an internet connection, saving you time and travel expenses. It’s also more flexible in terms of when and where you study.

However, not all online courses are created equally. For the best experience, look for a course that incorporates video content and interactive elements. These features make it easier to absorb the material, especially for visual learners. At Mariners Learning System, we offer a comprehensive, USCG-approved online captain’s license course that includes practice questions and video content to help ensure you are fully prepared for the final exam.

Classroom Training

For those who prefer direct interaction with an instructor and a structured learning environment, classroom training might be a better fit. Classroom courses can provide real-time feedback and allow students to ask questions on the spot. However, they may be less flexible when it comes to scheduling, and the pace may not be ideal for everyone - some students might feel left behind, while others may feel held back.

Is online the best way for me to get a captain’s license?  

If you have a busy schedule and find it difficult to commit to regular classroom sessions, an online course is an excellent option for obtaining your captain’s license. 

Unlike other online courses that can feel like a simple digital textbook, our courses are designed to be interactive, engaging, and comprehensive. Our course also includes practice questions that simulate the final exam, ensuring you're not only learning the material but also prepared for the testing format. This multi-faceted approach ensures that no matter your learning style, you have the resources you need to succeed.

By choosing us, you’re opting for more than just a self-paced course - you’re gaining access to an online learning environment that is carefully crafted to make your preparation process as effective and engaging as possible. Our courses are designed to make sure you feel confident and ready when it’s time to take the exam.

So if you’re looking for an online course that stands apart from the rest, one that supports you every step of the way with more than just textbooks, our captain’s license programs are exactly what you need.

Are there practice questions in the captain’s course that will prepare me? 

Yes, we offer USCG-approved courses that include practice questions specifically designed to prepare you for our final proctored exam. Our practice questions mimic the format of the actual exam and help reinforce your knowledge of key concepts. This ensures you feel confident and prepared on exam day. 

Do you have student stories I can take a look at?  

We’re proud of the success our students achieve with our programs, and we love sharing their stories. Our customer stories and reviews offer a unique insight into how our courses have helped individuals achieve their goals of becoming licensed captains. 

"Mariners allowed me to run a thriving business..."

Captain Billy Self runs a successful cruise business near Dallas called Sail with Scott, which was originally founded by his father, Captain Scott Self. The journey started with the construction of the 40’ wooden catamaran Seawolf in the family’s warehouse. After two years of hard work, Seawolf was ready to set sail on Lake Ray Hubbard in 2008. Captain Scott operated Seawolf with a deep passion for the water until his passing in 2020, following a battle with brain cancer. The photo below captures his final sail with his son, Captain Billy.

Determined to continue his father's legacy, Captain Billy pursued his captain's license with Mariners Learning System. With his dedication and hard work, he not only earned his OUPV/6-Pack Captain’s License, but also added Towing and Sailing Endorsements, and later upgraded to a Master Captain's License. Now, Captain Billy continues to carry on his father’s passion by running Sail with Scott on Lake Ray Hubbard, keeping the tradition alive and sharing the love of sailing with others.

"Mariners provided an excellent education..."

Captain Lauren Warren shares how Mariners Learning System played a pivotal role in her maritime career. Six years ago, she took our course and obtained her Captain’s License. Recently, she upgraded to her Master Captain's License, thanks to the support from Mariners Learning System and the ease of handling her paperwork through MM-SEAS.

Captain Lauren credits Mariners for providing an outstanding education, which allowed her to fully absorb the material, build essential skills, and gain the confidence needed to run her own business, Upper Chesapeake Boat School. Today, Captain Lauren teaches individual and group lessons, empowering boating students to navigate the waters with confidence.

These stories exemplify how Mariners Learning System has helped real captains turn their dreams into reality, whether by continuing a family legacy or building a successful business from the ground up. If you're ready to take the helm of your own future, let Mariners Learning System help guide your journey.

These stories provide real-world experiences, showing how our online courses empowered our students to succeed in their journey to obtaining a USCG captain’s license.