Welcome from the staff at Explorer’s Guide. The last several months have seen a number of significant changes with the National Maritime Center which directly affects most of us.

1. As of April 15, 2009 every credentialed merchant mariner must have a transportation worker identification credential also known as TWIC. If you do have one your license is at risk of being suspended. One of the firs things any boarding USCG officer will ask is for your card. Google TWIC and pre-enroll now! Remember for occupation to use Merchant Mariner.

2. Big change with limited licenses. We have been working with the NMC for some time to determine if our courses were still valid after the October policy change. Last week we were told that no new limited licenses would be issued to any fishing guides. The license will be limited to a single stretch of river working for one employer.

3. This time of the year we are getting our boats ready for spring launch in the upper Midwest. Make sure you check you flairs to make sure the have not expired. Remember flairs are only good for 42 months as of the date of the manufacture.

4. If you have any unique photos you want to share with others, please send them to gary@explorersguidellc.com and we will include them in the next newsletter.

5. Finally, we hope to be adding a close quarter maneuvering course later this summer. More detail in the next newsletter.

A new course list will be published on the webpage shortly. http://www.explorersguidellc.com

Good Sailing and Fair Wind

Capt Gary

Your Subscription: