Many boating safety courses are offered throughout the country, for all types of recreational boaters, and for boaters of all ages. Qualified volunteer organizations, such as the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron, and others sponsor many courses, and many state boating agencies also provide classes.
Courses cover many aspects of boating safety, from boat handling to reading the weather, and from a "Water 'N Kids" class to courses for boaters who want to learn electronic navigation skills. The most popular basic courses generally have from 6 to 13 lessons to provide a foundation of operational and safety instruction.
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Local flotillas offer a variety of safety classes, including basic/introductory
boating courses and safety courses, navigation, sailing and personal watercraft
safety, among others.
Boat/U.S. Foundation Courseline
The Courseline is a searchable database of current boating safety courses.
BoaterExam.com
Offers online boating safety courses with online certification tests for a
number of states.
Boatsafe
Offers an online Basic Boating Certification Course approved by the National
Association of State Boating Law Administrators, and a Coastal Navigation
Course.
Commander Bob
An award-winning website that advances boating education
PWC Safety School
Offers online courses and certification for PWC operators in several states
State Courses
Many states offer boating safety courses. The National Association of State
Boating Boating Law Administrators' online Directory provides contact
information for state boating agencies.
U.S. Sailing
Programs offer instruction in small and large sailboats, windsurfers, and
powerboats. All levels of instruction are available around the country for
beginner to advanced skills. Information on courses and instruction is available
on the web.
United States Power Squadrons®
Sponsors "The Squadron Boating Course," and a second course called "Boat Smart."
Also provides information on home-study courses co-sponsored by USPS and the
U.S.C.G. Auxiliary.