The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and the Eastern Pacific hurricane season runs from May 15 through November 30. In early April, weather experts begin making predictions about the upcoming hurricane season.Predictions this early are correct only about 50 percent of the time; as the season approaches, the predictions become more accurate, according to The Weather Channel Senior Hurricane Specialist Brian Norcross.Two Suppressing Factors in 2014In Norcross’ April...

The sinking of the South Korean ferry in April is one of the nation’s worst peacetime disasters. The death toll has risen to 244 according to recent media reports, and 58 more are unaccounted. Most of the lost lives were teenagers, further magnifying the heartache and pain.Relief effort and investigations are still underway. The captain of the ferry, Lee Joon-seok, now faces multiple charges for his part in the disaster. He is said to have violated his responsibilities as the ferry's...

Maneuvering around obstacles, such a traps and buoys, is one of the first basic skills a boat captain must build. It’s a skill that requires proper training, smart safety practices and paying attention on the water.Receiving Proper Training for Maneuvering Your VesselCaptains can meet the challenges of staying clear of obstacles in the water by first securing proper training in marine navigation and maneuvering methods, and then getting plenty of practice on water.Some of the basic boating...

Yes, you can take a course online to help satisfy the exam requirements for obtaining your captain’s license, provided the course is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC).Captain's Licensing EndorsementsThe NMC is the agency that sets requirements for, oversees and issues mariner credentials, including endorsements such as captains’ or masters' licenses. The requirements for obtaining your license depend upon the exact type of endorsement you seek. See the NMC’s site...