Upgrade to Master Captain’s License – April 9th – 11th, 2026

Master Captain Upgrade Course (OUPV to 25/50/100 Ton)

Take the next step in your maritime career with our Master Captain Upgrade Course. We designed this USCG-approved training for mariners who already hold an OUPV (6-Pack) license and want to expand their credentials. As a result, when you upgrade to a Master license (25, 50, or 100 Ton), you qualify to operate inspected passenger vessels and legally carry more than six paying passengers on the Great Lakes, Inland, or Near Coastal waters.

Who This Master Captain Upgrade Course Is For

• Licensed captains with an OUPV license who want to open more opportunities
• Mariners planning to operate inspected passenger vessels
• Professionals aiming for a 25 Ton, 50 Ton, or 100 Ton Master license (depending on sea service)

Not sure if you’re ready? Start here: our OUPV Captain’s License Course provides the foundation you need.

What You’ll Learn in the Master Captain Upgrade Course

• USCG requirements for inspected vessels, so you understand the standards from day one
• Advanced navigation, safety, and vessel operations; moreover, you’ll practice how to apply them on the water
• Procedures for carrying more than six passengers safely and legally; for example, manifest and inspection basics

Why Upgrade to Master

When you earn your Master’s license, you unlock tangible benefits:

• Expand your career — captain inspected vessels with confidence
• Qualify for more jobs — including tour boats, ferries, charter vessels, and workboats
• Stand out with credentials recognized nationwide; consequently, employers notice you first
• Use VA & GI Bill® benefits — Lake Superior Captain Academy is approved for veteran training assistance.

For official USCG licensing requirements, see the National Maritime Center website. In addition, review the USCG checklists below:

Near Coastal Checklist

Inland and Great Lakes Checklist

Course Location & Schedule

We host this course at the Richard Bong Historical Center in Superior, Wisconsin — just minutes from Duluth and right on Lake Superior. Furthermore, we build the schedule for working mariners, so you can upgrade without putting life on hold.

Frequently Asked Questions about the License Upgrade

How long does the Master Captain Upgrade Course take?

The class runs over three days. Therefore, you can complete the upgrade quickly and get back on the water.

What size vessels can I captain with this license?

Depending on your documented sea service, you may receive a 25 Ton, 50 Ton, or 100 Ton endorsement. As your experience grows, you can pursue higher tonnage.

Can I use my GI Bill® benefits for this training?

Yes. We support veterans throughout enrollment and documentation; moreover, our team helps you navigate the process efficiently.

What are the testing requirements?

You take one exam at the end of the course. It covers Navigation General, Deck General, and Deck Safety for inspected vessels. Most students feel relieved they do not need to retake Rules of the Road or Chart Plotting (already completed during OUPV). The test includes 50 multiple-choice questions, and you pass with a 70% or higher.

Take the Helm of Your Future

Don’t limit your opportunities with just an OUPV license. Enroll in our Master Captain Upgrade Course today, and, above all, move confidently toward bigger vessels and better jobs.

View upcoming classes & enroll