About Us
Empowering Captains, Navigating Success
Your trusted partner for maritime training, licensing, and career advancement on Lake Superior and beyond.
Meet your Instructor
Captain Rena Navarro
Expert Instruction and Coast Guard Licensing at Lake Superior Captain Academy
Captain Rena Navarro is the owner and lead instructor of Lake Superior Captain Academy, where she combines her passion for maritime education with hands-on experience to help aspiring captains navigate the Coast Guard licensing process.
Based in Superior, Wisconsin, Rena’s journey to the water began in an unexpected way—through the purchase of an old boat. That single decision sparked a deep love for the maritime world, inspiring her to transition from a career in education to becoming a USCG Certified Instructor and Licensed Captain. Drawing from her background as an educator, she brings a clear and engaging teaching style to every class, ensuring her students gain both the knowledge and confidence to succeed.
Beyond the classroom, Rena is a USCG licensing expert, assisting mariners in handling the complexities of Coast Guard licensing. She’s also no stranger to hands-on boat work, embracing every opportunity to stay connected to the water.
At Lake Superior Captain Academy, Rena’s mission is simple: to empower others to take the helm—both literally and figuratively. Whether you’re pursuing a captain’s license or looking to expand your maritime skills, she’s here to help you navigate your own course to success.
Set sail with us and start your journey today!
Discover Our Mission
Committed to shaping skilled and confident captains, we bring passion and expertise to every course we offer.
Lake Superior Captain’s Academy is where passion meets professionalism on the water. We are dedicated to delivering top-notch maritime training, ensuring our students gain the skills, certifications, and confidence needed to thrive in the maritime industry. From aspiring captains to seasoned mariners, we provide expert guidance, hands-on experience, and personalized support every step of the way. Join us to turn your maritime dreams into reality!
Our Core Values
Expert Training
Learn from experienced instructors who provide comprehensive, hands-on maritime education to ensure you're fully prepared for your certification.
Personalized Support
Receive tailored guidance throughout your training journey, from course selection to paperwork completion and beyond.
USCG Approved
Our USCG-approved courses meet all necessary requirements to help you succeed in obtaining your captain’s license with confidence.
Real-World Application
Gain practical, real-world knowledge and skills that you can immediately apply to your maritime career, ensuring long-term success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What courses do you offer?
Where are your classes held?
How long does it take to complete the OUPV (6-pack) license course?
Is USCG testing included in the courses?
What’s included in your all-inclusive courses?
Live, Instructor-Led Training
- USCG-Certified Instructors: You’ll learn directly from licensed captains who bring years of experience on the water—and in the classroom.
- Hands-On Learning: Get real-time demonstrations, immediate feedback, and practical instruction you simply won’t find online.
- Small Class Sizes: Our courses are capped to ensure plenty of one-on-one time with your instructor.
All Required Course Materials
- Student Workbooks & Study Guides: Designed to align with USCG requirements and support each lesson.
- Official Training Charts & Tools: Includes a set of plotting tools to borrow during class (parallel rules and dividers), navigation charts, and reference materials.
- Classroom Supplies Provided: You bring yourself—we take care of the rest.
Final Exams Administered On-Site
- No Traveling for Testing: Your USCG-approved final exams are given right in the classroom—no third-party testing centers or online proctoring required.
- Extra Help If You Need It: If you need a retest, we’ll work with you to make sure you’re successful.
Application & Licensing Support
- Coast Guard Application Help: We guide you through each step of your USCG license application, including sea service forms and medical paperwork.
- Document Review & Advice: We double-check your materials before you submit them—so you don’t face delays or rejections.
Plus:
- Captain’s Community: Gain lifelong access to a supportive network of fellow mariners and professional mentors
Do I need prior experience to join the courses?
To qualify for a USCG OUPV (6-Pack) or Master Captain’s License, the Coast Guard requires that you document a minimum number of days spent on the water—but you don’t need prior formal training or professional experience to join the course itself.
Many of our students are:
- Recreational boaters looking to go pro
- Fishing guides, marina staff, or seasonal crew members
- Retirees chasing a dream
- Newer boaters who want to get more comfortable on the water
During class, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—step by step. And if you’re unsure whether your time on the water counts, we’ll help you figure that out and guide you through the sea service documentation process.
How much does the OUPV (6-pack) course cost?
How do I sign up for a course?
You can easily enroll online through our website. Spots are limited, so early registration is recommended.
What’s the difference between the OUPV and Master’s Captain’s license?
The main difference is what type of vessels you can operate—and for whom.
OUPV License (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel)
- Commonly known as the “6-Pack” License
- Allows you to operate an uninspected vessel carrying up to 6 paying passengers
- Most often used for:
- Charter fishing boats
- Sightseeing tours
- Water taxis
- Personal guide services
- Can be issued for inland or near coastal waters (depending on your sea time)
Master Captain’s License
- Allows you to operate inspected vessels, which are typically larger and carry more than 6 passengers
- Can carry:
- Larger passenger boats
- Ferries
- Tour boats
- Research or workboats regulated under inspection
- Opens more career opportunities and is often required by employers
- Comes in versions such as 25-ton, 50-ton, or 100-ton, based on your experience and the size of boats you’ve operate
Why Should I Take an In-Person Course Instead of an Online One?
While online courses might seem convenient, nothing beats learning in person—especially when it comes to preparing for your Captain’s License.
Here’s why our students choose the classroom:
Real-Time Instruction
- Get your questions answered on the spot—no waiting for email replies or digging through forums.
- Live demonstrations of chart plotting, navigation tools, and safety gear make complex topics click.
Personalized Support
- You’re not just a username on a screen—you’re part of a class, with an instructor who’s invested in your success.
- We get to know you, your goals, and your sea time situation—and help you every step of the way.
Hands-On Learning
- Use real charts, dividers, and plotting tools with guidance from experienced captains.
- Practicing these skills in person builds true confidence—not just test prep.
On-Site Testing
- No online proctoring headaches—you’ll complete your USCG-approved final exams right in the classroom.
- Need a retake? We’re here to help—not some outsourced testing company.
Mariner Camaraderie
- Share sea stories, tips, and career advice with fellow boaters and future captains.
- Many of our students form lasting friendships and professional connections.
Online courses may give you content—but in-person gives you clarity, confidence, and community.
And when it comes to earning your license, that makes all the difference.
How do I know if my sea time counts?
Short answer: If you’ve operated a boat for at least 4 hours in one day—it probably does! We’ll help you document it