first mate academy

Year-Round ACADEMY Ages 8-18 - Curriculum-Based
- First Mate Certifications Beginner to advanced First Mate training
- Safe Teen Boaters Course "Driver's Ed" for teen boaters
- Junior First Mate Instructor Training Ages 15 & up, monthly
- Captains Apprenticeship Program & Training (CAPT)
- Homeschool Program Ages 8-18 - Curriculum-Based - Day Session (six, 90-min classes once weekly) *See HOMESCHOOL FLIER here.
Seasonal Programs (1-5 days) Ages 8-14 - Summer - Winter - Holiday

Educating "Today's Mates and Tomorrow's Captains".

The mission of FIRST MATE ACADEMY is to inspire a new generation of responsible boaters, anglers and future mariners through

education, hands-on skills training and mentorship.

Our goal is to prepare students for a lifetime of success on the water as

“Today’s Mates and Tomorrow’s Captains”.

Mission & Goal

Program Location

Speckled Trout Marina

370 Bayshore Drive

Palm Harbor, FL 34683

(Ozona)

Year-Round ACADEMY-Read More

ACADEMY

* REGISTRATION *

PHPR

SUFS/other

We are proudly partnered with

Step Up For Students,

Palm Harbor Parks & Recreation and Speckled Trout Marina!

Direct Provider info here.

Captain Andy Benedict - founder

As a husband, father of three and USCG Captain, I am relentlessly passionate about achieving safe, productive and fun outings on the water. Years of beach-going, boating, fishing and sharing knowledge with others has greatly shaped the lifestyle of our family. These experiences, among others, created the foundation of FIRST MATE ACADEMY - a progressive learning program steeped in family values where youth

development and education are of utmost importance.

~Captain Andy~