The educational aspect of PassageMaker University (PMU) and Trawler Fest allows attendees to learn new skills, gain confidence, and become comfortable with many aspects of the cruising under power lifestyle. The learning opportunities at these events range from two-day PMU courses to 90-minute seminar sessions to hands-on afternoon demonstrations, workshops, and clinics, all of which acquaint attendees with the boats, gear, and accessories in our niche.

Seminars at Trawler Fest are held each day of the three-day event. Courses range from classroom lectures to roundtable discussions to interactive, hands-on workshops and demonstrations. Seminars are devoted to all aspects of the cruising under power lifestyle. Industry experts, PMM editors, and seasoned cruisers share their experiences and expertise on topics ranging from engines, systems, and running gear to spare parts, electronics, and safety. Other topics include interior design, hull shapes, boat design, boat buying, insurance, financing, boat handling, anchoring, cruising the ICW or PNW, offshore passagemaking, and much, much more.

The goal of education at our events is to empower cruisers to be well-informed consumers and confident, self-sufficient, knowledgeable, safe boaters. The more opportunity our attendees have to learn and to network with each other and with industry representatives, the more we will grow this community and help connect cruisers with the information, boats, and products they need to truly embrace cruising under power.

PassageMaker University is an exclusive two-day offering of courses taught by the industry’s leading experts. The two-day format allows students to go beyond the basics of a subject and become immersed in all the details of what they’re learning. PMU courses include diesel engine maintenance, system overviews, troubleshooting, boat handling, seamanship, navigation, and weather. Course sizes are small to provide students with intimate groups in which to learn and the opportunity to ask as many questions as necessary. In many PMU venues we offer women-only courses, which have proved to be a highly popular way to learn and gain confidence in becoming a cruising partner. PMU’s in-depth courses provide quality instruction and hands-on opportunities and are designed for cruisers with all levels of experience. The courses are relevant for all who are looking to expand their knowledge base, skill sets, and confidence in order to become more self-sufficient and successful boaters.