"overpriced for what is provided, charts and tools are inaccurate. Tests questions repeat themselves within the same exam"
"I've really enjoyed using the mariner's learning system as a step towards acquiring my 100-ton master's license. As a lifelong boater, the 100-ton has stood out as a sort of black belt measure of knowledge in seamanship. So, I guess you could say it's been a lifelong goal. Still, finding the time to attend a maritime school or teaching myself the confounding nuances of the USCG test expectations while balancing family and work life simply was not an option. I am glad this program was there to fill the gap. I have really enjoyed this opportunity to advance my knowledge and hone the craft of navigation and seamanship. "
"easy enough - makes spending my money a little too easy!"
"Poor online tools- Need App"
"Have been putting off for some time but was fast and painless to order and explanation of material easy to understand will see how well it is to study and learn when it arrives "
"Overall, the material is not well organized and poorly edited. There is some inconsistent and contradictory information, acronyms and jargon that aren't defined, frequent misspellings, etc. The Coast Guard test questions require close attention to detail; this course does not live up to that standard. There is material scattered across lectures, videos, and books, but none seems to contain everything -- so you have to read through basically the same material 3 times to find the little differences.
Worst of all, though, when I talked to an instructor (the owner) about a problem in one of the books, he was defensive, dismissive, and rude. It turned out the part I was reading in the books (tide tables) is not even on the test, but the books did not say that.
I never would have spent $500 with this company had I known all this."
“Let's be fair Justin - When we spoke on the phone you said that you needed help with material covered in one of our textbooks. After listening to and understanding your problem – I could see that you were not following the course structure and were trying to use your text book as a standalone resource. I explained the importance of following the Lesson Plan found in your online classroom and how this tool identifies what to watch, read, and listen to and is your road map to success. Your response on the phone was more than a little surprising to say the least and that is putting it nicely. Everyone here at MLS is dedicated to our students success. However, if a student will not follow the lesson plan or use the provided learning tools as intended then all we can do is provide additional insight and guidance when asked - That is what I attempted to do during our call. If you would like a personal tour of how to get the most out of your course please give us a call and a customer support rep will be happy to help. We can be reached M-F 9-5 EST (609)303-0664.”
"$30 for shipping the books that go with the course via UPS. If I had known earlier in the process I would have opted for the all digital course and saved $130."
“Thanks for your order! The package that you purchased offers a turn-key solution which included (5) companion manuals along with a training chart and a deluxe navigators tools set that includes all the plotting tools required as well. The shipping weight for your course package was 8 lbs. MLS does not charge an additional handling fee for and only pass along the actual cost of shipping for your preferred method. Thanks again - We appreciate the opportunity.”
"A journey worth taking. I learned a lot. Staff was always available when I needed them. Looking forward to advancing to the Masters Class at some point."
"It was a very easy and straightforward process. Well done!"
"Excellent easy to follow "
"After 30 years of power boating and sailing, I learned a lot, especially proper navigation techniques."
"The live chat tech helped me with all my questions and concerns "
"It does a good job overall. However, it seems to fade as the course goes on. Videos are old and dated. Narrations lack some on the on screen bullet points. Could be refined. "
"Difficult checkout when trying to pay. "
"Good website with lots of relevant information"
A rep from Mariners Learning System, MLSOfficialReplies2, has responded:
“We appreciate your review - However, for someone who has completed and passed their original course and just spent $95.00 to extend your access for an additional 12 months were are a little confused as to where the disconnect is. Captain Bob will be giving you a call to see if he can help. Thanks again”