first mate academy
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Year-Round ACADEMY Ages 8-18 - Curriculum-Based
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First Mate Certifications Beginner to advanced First Mate training
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Safe Teen Boaters Course "Driver's Ed" for teen boaters
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Captains Apprenticeship Program & Training (CAPT)
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Seasonal Programs (1-5 days) Ages 8-14 - Summer - Winter - Holiday
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Homeschool Program Ages 8-18 - Curriculum-Based - Field Trips - School Visits
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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

We are proudly partnered with
Step Up For Students,
Palm Harbor Parks & Recreation and Speckled Trout Marina!
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~


Winter Program #1
12/22/2025




