Before you Begin

Although our training is parallel with and similar to the actual Coast Guard, unlike the Coast Guard there are less rigid physical requirements to be involved in the boat crew program.  

Pre-qualifications

The following pre-qualifications apply to all trainees:

Basically Qualified (BQ) Status: Prior to the start of the program in March, all trainees must have completed a boating safety course offered by the Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons and have BQ status within the Auxiliary. Your Boat Crew training builds on this foundation. Members in AP status having completed a qualifying course may train; however they may not be able to complete their certification as crew until they are BQ status.

Mandated Training /FEMA ICS Training: As Boat Crew, you will be an integral part of the USCG's operations program. A basic understanding of the Incident Command System, used throughout the nation, is essential. This training is on/line self-study. You should complete your mandated training (LINK) and FEMA ICS 100 and 700 (LINK) requirement by mid-May.

Team Coordination Training (TCT): TCT is a course developed by the USCG to promote safety by working as a team. These principles are used extensively in your underway training, Trainees should complete their 4 hour course requirements by June.

Physical Requirements

What about physical requirements?

There are no specific requirements for age, weight, strength, or endurance, however, trainees need to meet the following standards in completing each qualification task: "(1) each task must be performed personally by the trainees, with no physical assistance; (2) each task must be performed without hesitation; and (3) each task must be performed with confidence." (quote from Boat Crew Training Manual)

In 2022 a few more requirements and tests have been put in place that include vision tests, color blindness balance and ability to move around the outside and inside of small boats.

Also, any physical limitations and medications must be brought to the attention of the coxswain.  If you don’t, you may be putting yourself and others in harm's way.