This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Some outdoor enthusiasts have always wanted to take a houseboat trip to Lake Powell but the thought of maneuvering a large vessel or dealing with some of the complex gear inside might have scared them away.

Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas are trying to solve that problem by offering an Introduction to Houseboating weekend designed to teach novices how to navigate a large craft.

The classes include learning to pilot both a houseboat and powerboat, beaching and anchoring a houseboat, towing and securing a powerboat and boating rules and safety.

Classes are offered out of the Wahweap Marina near Page, Ariz. This year's dates are April 15-17, April 29-May 1, May 20-22, August 26-28, September 16-18, and October 14-16.

The cost is $299 that includes a two-night stay at the Lake Powell resort, daily breakfast for two and a box lunch for two in addition to the hands-on training aboard both a houseboat and powerboat.

A $50 fuel credit is offered to those who take an online boating safety course prior to arriving or a $20 fuel credit for watching a short online video and taking a quiz.