Are there applications this year?
No. First come first served for fully qualified applicants.
How do I attend training?
Be a registered Sea Cadet and contact your unit training officer. Parents must submit a request in Magellan which must then be approved by the unit staff before it is seen by the Small Boats Training Command.
The training is full. Can I go on the wait list?
We do maintain a wait list and it is common for us to pull from the wait list.
When are my due dates?
Registration typically closes on Dec 1. Deposits are due to the COTC by Dec 2nd. Cadet questionnaires are due by November 24. Do not miss deadlines or half heartedly complete the Cadet questionnaires. It is a reflection on you, so do a good job.
Who may ask questions to the training staff?
We encourage any cadet, parent, or unit staff to contact the training staff at anytime if you have questions.
May I collaborate with other parents for travel purposes?
We encourage parents to share information with each other to coordinate travel. The training is not able to provide personal details directly, but we encourage collaboration on the training social media sites.
Can I send a check instead of a money order? Do you accept electronic payment?
Yes, you may pay the training deposit by personal check (preferred) or money order. Electronic payment is available with special permission by the COTC. Billets are subject to cancellation without deposits after Dec 2.
I am a senior cadet and have attended a seamanship training. Can I apply to be staff?
Only cadets who have completed this Small Boat Operations training may apply to be staff. Rank is not a consideration for staff selections. It is based solely off your application and performance at the previous year's training.
Will there be transportation to and from the airport?
Yes, we have staff devoted to this purpose.
I am confirmed for training, but do not have orders yet. Should I start making travel arrangements for training?
If you are confirmed for training and on track for payment, that means that we are holding a spot and that you should start making travel arrangements.
I am confirmed for training, but have not paid the training fee. How long do I have?
Do not delay. If you need more time, let the CO know. We reserve the right to cancel confirmations for non payment.
Is this an operational training?
You will spend most of every day underway. There is a good amount of class, but the primary teaching will be done on the water.
Is this training a "beat down" style training?
This training maintains a more relaxed professional environment, but requires strict adherence to orders at all times. We will not entertain behavioral problems.
What are the accommodations like?
You will have hotel type accommodations with a roommate and will be expected to keep the room clean and tidy.
Do I need to have seamanship experience to attend Small Boats Training?
No experience is necessary to attend training. We prioritize cadets who have at least one advanced training completed.
Do I need to complete my Boater Safety Course before attending?
No, the course will be taught at training for everyone regardless of previous experience. You will receive your Virginia Boating Safety Certificate at training. No need to bring your state boating card, you will get a new one.
May I bring my own cold weather gear to training?
Yes. When on the water, you may wear whatever style/color gear you would like under the survival suits. For example, some wear sweatpants and long underwear and a few jackets under their suit. The suits are very warm, but some like the extra warmth. Temperatures typically stay in the 40s, so plan accordingly.
Does the extra pair of boots need to be of any particular style?
Extra boots must be black or tan and of military style. Ones that can be worn with extra socks or are waterproof are highly recommended. highly recommended as your feet will occasionally get wet.
Yes.
Can I bring snacks?
No.
No.
No. feel free to use whatever you wish to bring your gear in. That can be multiple suitcases, etc. Storage space is not an issue at training.
What responsibilities can I expect to have while at training?
Everyone will have leadership responsibilities of some sort regardless of rank. Trainees will not fill any staff cadet role.
Can cadets bring electronics?
Cadets may at times have the opportunity to have their phones or electronics. These items will be collected upon check-in and distributed as necessary.
Are cadets required to participate in the gun range activities?
No, cadets are not required to shoot if they do not want to. You will have the opportunity to earn the marksmanship ribbon, however.
What do I do with the forms for marksmanship?
Please bring a printed out, physically signed range form to training. You may also send it to the CO, but bringing a printed copy is preferred. This form is on the website and MUST be signed by the parent for the cadet to participate.
What do I do with the questionnaire?
Send the form to the CO. These are due November 24.
Can I send my cadet mail or letters?
We will not accept mail. Cadets may also have access to their phones at the CO's discretion.
Will there be training T-Shirts?
Unfortunately, the program does not supply T-Shirts anymore, but if there is enough interest, we can put an order in so there are shirts available for purchase.
Yes, we will be holding informational meetings on Zoom or another platform occasionally as needed. Those notices will be sent out via email to the cadets, parents, and unit staff of the confirmed attendees. Please come prepared with questions.