Our Journey to the Captain’s Chair

I’m so excited to share some really fun news: Kent and I recently received our TWIC cards! 

A TWIC card, or Transportation Worker Identification Credential, is a required credential to work in the maritime industry. It’s a significant milestone in our journey to becoming licensed captains and it’s the first step in a long process that will hopefully lead to the two of us commanding our own vessel. 

What is a TWIC Card?

For maritime workers, a TWIC card is a federally mandated identification card that grants individuals access to secure areas within maritime facilities. By obtaining our TWIC cards, we’ve taken a concrete step towards realizing our dream of a life on the water.

Benefits of Having a TWIC Card:

• Access to Secure Areas: A TWIC card grants you access to restricted areas within ports, terminals, and vessels.   
• Faster Security Clearance: TWIC card holders often experience faster security clearance at ports and terminals.
• TSA PreCheck Eligibility: In some cases, a TWIC card can make you eligible for TSA PreCheck, which can expedite airport security screening.  
• Enhanced Job Opportunities: Having a TWIC card can open up more job opportunities in the maritime industry, such as working on cargo ships, cruise ships, or in port operations.    

Essentially, a TWIC card is a valuable credential for anyone working in or around the maritime industry. It signifies a higher level of security clearance and can provide numerous benefits, both professionally and personally.

Why Become Licensed Captains?

We’re drawn to the idea of a life on the water for several reasons. First and foremost, there’s the adventure. We dream of exploring distant shores. The freedom and independence of sailing the open sea are incredibly appealing.

Beyond the thrill of adventure, we’re also excited about the challenge of mastering seamanship. From navigating complex waterways to understanding marine weather patterns, there’s always something new to learn.

And lastly, we’re committed to safety and to learning everything we can about navigation, marine weather, and boat maintenance.

But our vision for the future also includes the flexibility to work in the maritime industry, such as chartering boats to tourists or delivering vessels. A captain’s license will open up these opportunities and allow us to experience the world from the water.

Specifically, we are aiming for the OUPV (6-pack) license. From the USCG National Maritime Center:

“This officer endorsement is most appropriate for uninspected passenger vessels which by law are limited to six or less passengers for hire. These are usually smaller vessels and normally engage in charter fishing, whale watching, SCUBA diving, and tour cruises.”

Following Our Journey

To keep up with our progress, check out our Sail Plan page. We’re tracking major milestones there, from our first sailing lessons to our most recent adventures in the BVI. We’ll update as our journey unfolds.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on our journey. Do you have any advice or tips for aspiring captains? Or perhaps you know a licensed captain who could share their experiences?

We can’t wait to share more updates with you soon!

Fair winds and following seas, my friends!