Should have read more...I always think of the 6-pack as just that (neve 25 tons) and the 100 ton as the next category...thus tonnage...
Actually, there is no such thing as a "6 pac" license.
The first license available is an "OUPV" - Operator of an Uninspected Passenger Vessel. Vessels that carry less then 6 passengers for hire do not need to be inspected by the USCG, hence the "6-pak" moniker.
That does not mean that the vessel is not required to meet all the USCG and DOT safety standards, just that the USCG does not physically inspect the vessel. They will though if you have an "incident".
The next license up from the OUPV is "Mate" and then "Master"
The most basic of the "Masters" is inland waters or lakes at a 25 ton limitation (remember cargo capacity not weight)
For most mariners in the recreation phase the license goes up to 100 ton NC (near Coastal). Near coastal is not specified but generally accepted to mean 100 miles from the nearest safe port of refuge.
After that the same "Master" has increased tonnage ratings up to 1600 tons and endorsements, the first one needed being celestial navigation.
The next jump is "any tonnage any waters" - think ships of any size.
There are a few more, such as "sailing" and "Master of Towing" for the tugboat people.
An example of a the tonnage thing: If you have a 25' Boston Whaler and it was USCG documented it would be documented as "less then 5 gross tons"
My boat, which physically weighs about 38,000 pounds (19 tons) is documented by the USCG as being 30 gross tons. If my boat really weighed 60 thousand pounds it would be stuck to the bottom.
Either way getting your license is a long involved process, requires a difficult test and paperwork scrutiny, and a more thorough background test since 9-11
Kudos to Brian
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