It’s a fact: an educated boater is a safe boater. To that end, the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGaux), Marco Island proudly announces the Fall 2022 Boater Training Courses. The following courses will be offered: Nautical Skills and Seamanship, Local Boater Knowledge – Marco Island, Boater Locales – Backwater Edition, Suddenly In Charge and Paddling Safety. All classes are led by USCG certified instructors.
Nautical Skills and Seamanship (BS&S): A comprehensive educational program that includes the following topics: which boat is right for you; Equip, tow and handle your boat; Navigation; Time; The rules you must follow; and your boat’s radio. Upon satisfactory completion of the course (BS&S), the student will be qualified to receive a Florida-issued Boater Safety Identification Card (BSIC), which is required for anyone born after January 1, 1988, to operate a motor boat of more than 10 hp. Many insurance companies offer discounts with the BSIC.
Teaching begins on October 10 and takes place over four weeks, Mondays and Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. A course manual is provided on the first evening.
Boater Local Knowledge – Marco Island (BLK): This course provides information on how to navigate the waterways in and around Marco Island. This course is recommended for novice and intermediate boaters, or boaters new to this area. Each class lasts approximately three and a half hours and is given three times: 10/25/22; 11/08/22; and 06/12/22 at 5:00 p.m. Note: Top Spot Chart #204 is required for use during this course.
Boater’s Local Knowledge – Backwater Edition: This course begins where BLK ends, providing navigational tools and waterway knowledge for boaters wishing to explore the unique backwaters of the 10,000 Islands. Each class lasts approximately three and a half hours and is given three times: 10/26/22; 10/11/22; and 07/12/22 at 5:00 p.m. To note: Top Spot Chart #204 is required for use during this class.
Both courses make extensive use of aerial and water photos as well as Google Earth mapping.
Suddenly at the controls: This 3-hour introduction to boating safety is designed for those who aren’t typically at the helm and will help you prepare with the basics in case of an emergency. If the captain of a vessel is incapacitated or falls overboard, this is a “red flag” for your responsibilities. You will learn more about your ship and its operating principles when you are “suddenly in command”. Date/Time: 09/11/22 at 5:00 p.m.
Paddle Safety: The aim of this course is for paddlers to be aware of basic paddling safety issues and needs, the basic equipment you should have, and to provide paddling information that will help you stay a more knowledgeable and safer paddler. Date/Time: 11/15/22 at 5:00 p.m.
All classes are held at USCGaux Station, 903 Collier Court, Caxambas Park, Marco Island, Florida, 34145.
For more information about these and other boating courses offered by the USCGaux, contact the Public Education Officer at 239-384-7416 or [email protected]
For information on other USCGaux programs, including free ship safety exams, or how to join the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, 239-394-5911 or www.USCGauxMarco.org.
Saving lives since 1939. The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary – A proud tradition, a worthy mission. For more information, please visit www.cgaux.org.
