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Motorboat Operator Training Course (MOTC)

CSUMB Boating Safety Program

Professional Development and CEUs

The Motorboat Operator Training Course (MOTC) is a comprehensive, 4-day intensive training that prepares participants to safely operate vessels in academic and research environments.

Hosted by the Boating Safety Program at California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) in collaboration with the Diving & Boating Consortium of Monterey Bay, this course provides classroom instruction, confined-water training, and real-world vessel operation in Monterey Bay.

The MOTC was adopted by the Scientific Boating Safety Association (SBSA) in 2015 and is derived from the Department of Interior – U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC). The curriculum meets the same minimum standards and is recognized as an equivalent course by the National Conservation Training Center.

This training is required to operate CSUMB university vessels and provides reciprocity with other SBSA Organizational Members (including CSU, UC, Stanford, and other research institutions).

Complete our interest form to learn more about upcoming course dates, eligibility, and registration details. 

Interest Form

About EEIP

MOTC is offered in partnership with the College of Extended Education & International Programs (EEIP) at CSUMB. EEIP supports workforce-relevant training, professional certifications, and experiential learning opportunities that extend beyond traditional degree pathways.

Through EEIP, participants gain access to high-impact, hands-on programs aligned with career advancement and institutional excellence.

MOTC Format (4 Days Intensive)

The MOTC includes three integrated learning environments:

  • Interactive lectures and discussions
  • Demonstrations of safety equipment
  • Scenario-based learning
  • Navigation rules and chart review
  • In-water and on-boat rescue skills
  • Extreme environment equipment testing
  • Rescue equipment deployment
  • Water survival techniques
  • Practical motorboat handling under supervision
  • Docking and maneuvering
  • Rescue and self-rescue drills
  • Navigation in real-world marine conditions

This approach ensures participants build both theoretical knowledge and applied seamanship skills.

Key Learning Areas

  • Operational requirements and regulations
  • Pre-launch preparation and safety checks
  • Navigation and seamanship fundamentals
  • Safe vessel operation
  • Emergency procedures and rescue response
  • Trailering and fire suppression

To earn certification, participants complete:

  • California Boaters Examination
  • MOTC Written Exam
  • Practical Skills Demonstrations

Certification Details

  • Valid for 5 years
  • Authorizes operation of CSUMB institutional vessels
  • Provides reciprocity with other SBSA Organizational Members

Graduates of the MOTC:

  • Gain safety, seamanship, and leadership skills
  • Earn certification recognized across CSU, UC, and other academic and government institutions
  • Receive career-relevant training for marine science, research, and fieldwork
  • Build teamwork and operational confidence
  • Strengthen graduate school and workforce readiness

Registration Information

May 18-21, 2026 (Monday–Thursday)
Almost full. Waitlist available. 

July 27–30, 2026 (Monday–Thursday)

Limited space available. Early registration is encouraged. To register or request additional information, please email:

Nick Nechay
Diving & Boating Safety Officer
nnechay@csumb.edu

boatingsafety@csumb.edu 

  • Marine science students
  • Faculty and research staff
  • Field technicians
  • Graduate students
  • Academic researchers operating vessels
  • Institutional boating program participants
  • Private and/or government agencies that require marine operations

Total cost is $1,650.

Tuition includes:

  • All training materials
  • Equipment usage
  • Vessel operational costs
  • Fuel

Note: COAST Student Research Grants and others available.