CAPTAIN'S ACADEMY
A hands-on introduction to boating designed for young explorers ages 8–10.
Learn. Explore. Navigate.
The Captain’s Academy is a hands-on junior captain experience that transforms Burnham Harbor into a floating STEAM studio for young explorers ages 8–10.
Participants begin with an interactive online lesson before joining us for an immersive harbor experience featuring real-world boating education, creative design challenges, and time aboard a Chicago Fleet Charters vessel.
From designing, building, decorating, and testing their own boats to completing a commissioning ceremony, each young captain leaves with new skills, memorable keepsakes, and an official certificate of completion.
MADE FOR CURIOUS LEARNERS
WHO SHOULD JOIN?
Future Captains
Young Explorers
Hands-On STEAM Learners
Program Structure
Total Program Duration: 5 Hours
Captain's Academy does not provide or issue captain licenses or certifications. This program serves as a preparatory educational experience, providing foundational knowledge and guidance for individuals interested in pursuing formal captain training and licensing through approved third-party institutions.
Online Academy
Dockside Learning
Captain Pathway Guidance
Complete self-paced learning modules designed to reinforce boating fundamentals, safety principles, and captain career pathways.
5 Asynchronous Modules
Participants will complete self-paced online modules designed to reinforce learning and expand upon concepts introduced during the dockside sessions.
Topics include:
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Module 1: Boating Fundamentals
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Module 2: Emergency Awareness
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Module 3: Navigation Basics
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Module 4: Career Pathways
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Module 5: Next Steps
Participate in guided hands-on sessions aboard the yacht while docked and gain real-world exposure to boating terminology, systems, and operations.
Recommended Next Steps
After completing the Captain's Academy, participants will receive guidance on reputable boating schools and educational organizations where they may pursue official training and licensing pathways.
CHOOSE YOUR EXPERIENCE
MOST POPULAR
The Captain Foundations Experience
$299
1 two-hour group dockside sessions
5 self-paced online modules
Hands-on yacht exposure
Captain pathway guidance
Digital completion certificate
Designed for young explorers who are curious about boating, this engaging group experience combines five self-paced online modules with a two-hour dockside session aboard the yacht. Participants will explore boating terminology, onboard systems, water safety, navigation basics, and the responsibilities of a captain through hands-on activities and guided instruction. Each participant will receive a digital certificate recognizing completion of the experience.
The Captain Private Experience
$499
1 two-hour private dockside sessions
5 self-paced online modules
Private yacht walkthrough
Individual career guidance
Digital completion certificate
The Captain Private Experience offers a personalized, one-on-one introduction to the boating world. After completing five self-paced online modules, the participant will enjoy a private two-hour dockside session featuring an in-depth yacht walkthrough, hands-on learning, and individualized guidance based on their interests. This focused experience concludes with a digital certificate of completion.