American Sailing Launches Powerboating Education with American Boating
New Organization Brings Powerboating Education and Certification to Boaters Around the World
LOS ANGELES, CA — American Sailing (ASA), renowned for its excellence in sailing education, is proud to announce the launch of American Boating, a new organization dedicated to providing top-tier powerboating education and certification. Jonathan Payne, CEO of American Sailing, shared his enthusiasm:
“We have seen the marine industry slowly change over the last several years in a way that makes formal powerboating training a necessity for all new boaters in the near future. From insuring a boat to getting financing for a boat loan, it is becoming increasingly difficult to enter the sport without a record of on-the-water training. The states are also becoming more strict with their state boater card requirements as well. Our mission is to be there for these new boaters and to help them get trained to be safe and responsible operators so they can have fun with their friends and family out on the lake or ocean.”
As part of this exciting development, Chris Dalgaard has been appointed as the Director of American Boating. Dalgaard brings a wealth of experience and vision to the role. He remarked:
“American Boating was created to meet the evolving needs of the industry, from stricter insurance and financing requirements to the demands of charter companies and boating clubs for more qualified operators,” said Chris Dalgaard, Director of American Boating. “We are bringing the same best-in-class textbooks, curriculum, and on-the-water training that American Sailing has perfected over 40 years, with a mission to grow powerboating through education—teaching boaters to enjoy the water responsibly while protecting the environment, other boaters, and their vessels. Every standard we set is backed by thousands of hours of expertise from our Senior Master Instructors.”
The launch of American Boating builds on the history and progression of the Recreational Power Boating Association (RPBA) and American Sailing’s 2024 acquisition of the American Boating Association (ABA). These foundations enable American Boating to set a new standard for education in the powerboating community.
Innovative Products and Programs
American Boating offers a range of educational materials, including two flagship textbooks, Powerboating Made Easy (2024), and Advanced Powerboating (2025).
The program will also roll out a robust set of online courses and certifications, partnerships with leading vendors, and a network of 100 brick-and-mortar schools across the United States by the end of 2025.
For more information, visit americanboating.com.
About American Sailing
Founded in 1983, American Sailing has been the premier standard for sailing education and certification in the United States, inspiring a community of sailors who value safety, skill, and adventure. With a network of over 400 affiliate schools worldwide, American Sailing has introduced millions to the joys of sailing through comprehensive training programs, innovative textbooks, and partnerships with industry leaders. By fostering a passion for the sport and a commitment to excellence, American Sailing continues to shape the future of recreational boating and maritime education.
About Recreational Powerboating Association (RPBA)
Founded in 2009, The Recreational Powerboating Association (RPBA) has been a cornerstone in the power boating community, providing essential training and resources for boaters to navigate safely and confidently. With decades of experience, the RPBA has built a reputation for excellence in powerboating education and certification, making it a trusted name among amateur boaters and professionals alike. As American Boating incorporates the legacy and expertise of the RPBA, it aims to expand and enhance these standards, creating a unified, internationally recognized framework for powerboating education.
Media Contact:
Zeke Quezada
Director of Communications, American Sailing
Zeke@asa.com
