From Passenger to Captain: 2026 is the Year for Women at the Helm

 Since the beginning of time, the image of “the captain” has been viewed through a narrow lens—traditionally as a man. But looking at the marinas and waterways in 2026, you’ll see the tide has turned. Women now captain nearly 1 in 5 boats, and are no longer just along for the ride.

On April 18, 2026, an exciting milestone took place in South Haven. Boat Safe Chicago, Gull Lake Marine, and the  Michigan Maritime Museum kicked off the first in a series of Women at the Helm classes. Held at the beautiful Michigan Maritime Museum, this event brought together a community of women ready to trade the passenger seat for the captain’s chair.

  “Our role is simple: to help more women build the skills to confidently take command of a boat and fully embrace the boating experience. Because when you’re in control on the water, the experience becomes more refined—safer, more freeing, and deeply enjoyable. Together with partners like Boat Safe Chicago and the Michigan Maritime Museum, we’re proud to help bring that experience to life.” — Kim Hoogenboom, Marketing, Gull Lake Marine 

Knowledge is the Ultimate Life Jacket

The session was led by Master Captain Lisa Dixon, a 100-ton master captain whose expertise and encouragement set the perfect tone for the day. The curriculum was designed to bridge the gap between “being on a boat” and “commanding a vessel,” covering:

• Boating Safety Basics: The foundational “why” behind every move on deck.
• Rules of the Waterways: Navigating the “social cues” and legal requirements of traffic.
• Wearing the Captain’s Hat: Shifting the mindset from observer to decision-maker.

Master Captain Lisa shared the challenges she faces as one of the few women captaining yachts in Chicagoland and how they’ve pushed her to master her craft. Now, she uses her platform to empower other women to take the helm and claim their space on the water.

While the wind and current prevented our planned ride out to Lake Michigan, the spirit of the day remained high. Gull Lake Marine graciously offered to provide a ride to all participants at a later date, ensuring everyone gets that vital time behind the throttle. The lively discussion between novice and experienced boaters proved that when women share information, everyone wins.

The Peggy Effect: Finding Freedom at Any Age

Women are naturally conscientious, safety-focused, and thoughtful—traits that make for excellent boaters. Yet, many still fall into the role of passenger by habit.

Take the story of Peggy. In her late 60s, Peggy had been a passenger since childhood. When she attended training with Boat Safe Chicago alongside her husband, son, and son-in-law, she told the instructor she was “just an observer.” However, after a little encouragement to try a few simple maneuvers, Peggy’s perspective shifted.

By the time the class reached docking and close-quarter maneuvers, Peggy was outperforming the rest of her family. The realization that she held the skill herself opened a new world. She no longer needed to rely on anyone else to get on the lake; she could go out alone or with her friends. Like Peggy, we want every woman to realize she has the capability to command the helm.

Take the Next Step

Whether you are just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, there are many ways to continue your journey from passenger to captain:

• Book Private Training: Get one-on-one instruction on your own vessel to build specific confidence.
• Join a Group Class: Sign up for our next “Women at the Helm” session to learn in a supportive, social environment.
• Attend the next Michigan Maritime Museum event: Join us on May 2 in South Haven
• Host an Event: Bring Boat Safe Chicago to your local marina or yacht club for a custom training day.
• Level Up: For those looking to make it a career, consider the path to becoming a USCG Licensed Captain.

Your safety. Your power. Your time on the water. 

#WomenAtTheHelm #BoatSafeChicago #GullLakeMarine #MichiganMaritimeMuseum #WomenInBoating #Empowerment #CaptainStatus #LakeMichigan #BoatingSafety