Instructors

ISPA's Method of Instruction is the keystone to the teaching of all levels of the ISPA Program

What could be more fulfilling than joining the cadre of expert sailors who make up the ISPA Instructor Team teaching one of the world’s best sail and power boating instruction programs?

A rewarding world of adventure awaits!

Existing ISPA instructors can get certified on ISPA.com by filling out this form after general registration.

Why Become an ISPA Certified Instructor?

<i class="fa-solid fa-dollar-sign"></i> Make Money Teaching

Make Money Teaching

As a certified ISPA Instructor you will be able to make money teaching virtually anywhere around the world.

Improve Your Skills

Improve Your Skills

One of the best ways to improve your boating skills is to become an instructor and spend more time on the water.

Become Part of Our Community

Become Part of Our Community

Our global and growing community of boaters is creating opportunity for like minded people to communicate and explore new opportunities.

ISPA Method of Instruction

International Sail And Power Academy takes the training of its instructors very seriously. Consequently, ISPA will continue to have only the most qualified Instructor Evaluations train instructors, and monitor their performance.

As an instructor, YOU ARE ISPA!

Your goal is to consistently present students with best practices by using the ISPA training manuals to provide high-quality, progressive instruction that takes students from novice to whatever level of certification they desire, up to Ocean Master.

The ISPA Instructor Certification Program consists of two components as follows:

1. Study Component

US$50, Online

The study component can be taken online via the ISPA website (or in-person with an Instructor Evaluator). The study component has two elements as follows:

A) Methods of Instruction Course: you will learn ISPA’s training philosophy and standards through a short course and knowledge check.

B) ICR Exam: You will confirm your knowledge of the International Convention for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea through an exam.

2. Practical On-The-Water Component

Fees vary depending on the location and school

The Practical On-the-Water Component will be held by an Instructor Evaluator. The Practical Component typically requires 3-4 days and consists of two parts as follows:

A) Practical Sailing Skill check: The Instructor Evaluator will verify the candidates a) knowledge of ISPA techniques, and b) single-handed sailing and boat handling skills.

This verification can be conducted in several ways including through on-the-water exercises, candidate prepared videos, and or the IE’s prior knowledge and experience with the candidate.

B) Practical Clinic: The Instructor Evaluator will review the ISPA training system and practice simulated instruction.

How Can I Become an Instructor?

Prerequisites

While circumstances may vary, the following are the minimum requirements to qualify to become a certified ISPA Instructor:
  1. ISPA Coastal Skipper
  2. VHF Operator Certificate
  3. Vaild First Aid Certificate, including CPR

ISPA Certified Instructor Clinic / Upgrade

Instructor Candidate must hold up to:
  1. ISPA Coastal Skipper Bareboat Certificate of Competence Sail / Power
  2. ISPA Coastal Navigator Certificate of Competence
Instructor Clinic with an IE:
  1. Pass the Methods of Instruction Endorsement (conducted by IE)
  2. Pass both the practical and the workbook theory test with a minimum 90% score.
  3. Complete a single-handed practical sailing test including use of a hand-held compass and chart work.

ISPA Certified Instructor Clinic / Upgrade Instructors From Other Organization

ISPA Certified Instructor Clinic / Upgrade

Sail and Power boat instructors from other recognized organizations who wish to become ISPA Certified Instructors must have achieved all of the following criteria and will also be subject to a one year apprenticeship.
  1. Candidates must meet the requirements and have proof of certification at the level they wish to be certified. (Minimum Coastal Skipper Bareboat Certificate or equivalent)
  2. Must have completed and be in possession of ISPA workbook/manuals up to and including the level at which they seek to be certified.
  3. Pass the workbook theory test with a minimum 90% score.
  4. Hold a current VHF operator license
  5. Hold a Standard Fist Aid and CPR Certificate

Program

Becoming an ISPA Instructor requires the following:

  1. Study (online or in-class):
    – Methods of Instruction (MOI) Course
    – ICR Exam
  2. On the water:
    – Skills Verification
    – Practical Session
man standing inside sailboat

Converting from other boat training organizations

If you have been working as an instructor for other organizations, you can shorten the above process to obtain instructor certification.

If you have been working as an instructor for other organizations, you can shorten the above process to obtain instructor certification. Please email our certification committee here.

person writing on paper leaning on brown table

Instructor Registration

All ISPA Instructors are required to register with ISPA annually to maintain their certified status and to ensure the quality of all ISPA Instructors.

If you are already a certified ISPA Instructor, register as a free member, then fill out this form.

three sail boats on water during daytime

Level of instruction up to IE

After obtaining your basic ISPA Instructor Certification, you will be able to teach ISPA Competent Crew and ISPA Day Skipper as a minimum. Teaching higher course levels will be determined by an Instructor Evaluator based on skills, knowledge and experience. There is also a certification process to qualify you to teach Coastal Navigator only. Please email us for the process.

Converting from other boat training organizations

If you have been working as an instructor for other organizations, you can shorten the above process to obtain instructor certification.

If you have been working as an instructor for other organizations, you can shorten the above process to obtain instructor certification. Please email our certification committee at certification@ispa.com.

Practical Clinic Schools

Canada
Alberta
Sindbad School of Sailing
British Columbia
Stowaway Adventures
Westcoast Adventure College (WAC)
Wind Valley Sailing School
Flying Bulldog Sailing School Ltd.
Barnacle Bill Yachting Service
Nanaimo Yacht Charters & Sailing School
Cooper Boating
Newfoundland
Sea School of Newfoundland
Ontario
Sail Superior
USA
Washington
Tethys Offshore Sailing
NW Exploration
Japan
Yokohama Bayside Marina
Windvalley Sailing School
Croatia (Split)
The Ultra Sailing Company
International
NautiKel Adventures

Start Your Adventure Today

Join our team and become a world-class sailing instructor with limitless opportunities!

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