Hey, that's easy.

U.S. Power Squadrons teach a course all over the country . . . 2 hours a night,
once a week for four weeks. Three nights of instruction, last night is the
test. Very high pass rate, as it is not rocket science, but just good common
sense.

Bonus: Most insurance companies give you a discount on your boat insurance if
you have passed this course. (Sales pitch, he Can you take a guess why
those greedy insurance companies do that? Answer: Because it makes you a
safer boat, less risk to them, less liklihood that, out of ignorance, you'll do
something dumb)

Short of that, U.S.P.S. also has a similar program on CD-ROM disk, where you
can study it at home, and at your own pace.

Finally, if all else fails, the boaters' bible for years has been Chapman's
"Piloting, Seamanship, and Small Boat Handling". Much of the information you
should have is in there . . . although I've always felt it better to be
spoon-fed by experts!

We're up to a 34' boat now, but we started out with a wooden Chris-Craft 14'
kit boat years ago. Joined the Power Squadron when we moved up to a 17'
outboard . . . and I highly recommend their course.

For those interested in learning more advanced skills, the Power Squadron has
courses for its own members on everything from engine maintenance, electrical
systems, to piloting, advanced navigation, etc.

Drop me an e-mail if you'd like to know more.