2026 WaterFire Captains Training

We are looking for the next generation of WaterFire Captains! If you've got a passion for WaterFire, a drive to learn and lead, and a driver's license, you can be in the program!

Becoming a Captain is a long and dedicated process. You won't immediately be thrown into driving on a Full Fire; there are many steps to get there. In time and with practice, you will hopefully get your chance!

Please see below for all the class requirements:

1) You'll need to attend both the In Class Training dates which are on April 1st and 2nd.

2) You'll need to attend the On River training days. These dates will be on April 8th, April 9th, 15th, and 16th.

3) You need a driver's license.

5) We reserve the right to remove anyone from the training at any time. We of course, want everyone to succeed but we must protect other volunteers, staff, and equipment along the way.

You should take the RI Boating Safety course, Here is a link Boating Safety. If you were born after 1986 it is required.

Below, you will also see the Levels to the training needed to become a Captain.

Captains In Training levels

Level 1

In Class Training

Level 2

On River Basic Training

Level 3

6 Hours

One-on-One Training - Throughout the month of May

Level 4

40 Hours Per Level

12 Hours - Morning Build w/ Mentor Captain

Fires/ Builds - 3 builds

16 Hours - Full Fire w/ Mentor Captain Little - no driving

Fires/ Builds - 4 full fires

12 Hours - Full Fire as Guest Boat Captain

Fires/ Builds - 4 fires

Level 5

40 Hours Per Level

20 Hours- Morning Build by self

Fires/ Builds- 5 morning builds

20 Hours - Partial/ Basin Events w/ Mentor Captain - with Driving

Fires/ Builds - 5 partial fires

Level 6

40 Hours Per Level

20 Hours- Full Fire driving majority of time w/ Mentor Captain

Fires/ Builds - 5 events

20 Hours - Driving by self for Partials

Fires/ Builds - 5 events

Thank you for supporting WaterFire Providence! We appreciate you.