New London Power Squadron

America's Boating Course

America's Boating Course

America's Boating Course is a course for all boaters including skippers of a family cruiser, sailing enthusiasts, personal watercraft (PWC) operators, hunters or fishermen operating an outboard utility boat, and canoe and kayak paddlers,. It covers the basics you need to know to safely and legally operate your boat, such as basic boating terminology, boat handling, water sports safety, PWCs, legally required equipment and other boating laws and regulations, right-of-way rules between boats, and marine radio operation. The course is meant to be of interest to the whole family, and we encourage your family to attend as a group.

Beyond the basic safety material, additional material covers the fundamentals of reading nautical charts, of using a chart to plot and follow a safe course, and the basics of using a Global Positioning System (GPS) for navigation. In addition to practice charts and plotting tools, the materials supplied with the course also include a CD-ROM containing Maptech’s Chart Navigator computer program, allowing the student to learn about this exciting new electronic technology.

America's Boating Course can be taught in either of two formats – an eight (8) hour course covering basic safety topics, or a twelve (12) hour course covering safety plus charting and navigation topics. Either format with its proctored examination meets the requirements of National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) so that you can get your safety certificate in those states that require one to operate a power driven vessel.

Many of today’s recreational boaters utilize GPS receivers and perform electronic, waypoint navigation. Waypoint navigation using a handheld GPS is somewhat different from traditional dead reckoning. With a GPS you have good information about where you are in terms of latitude and longitude, but the GPS doesn't tell you what is around you or beneath your boat. Using waypoints, you have precise information about the bearing and distance from your current location to the waypoints, but the GPS doesn't know what may be in the way. The use of charts is explained in this course as the essential step to provide key information required for a safe passage.
Learning to boat the right way is important and the increased knowledge will enhance your safety on the water and your enjoyment of the sport.

America's Boating Course usually can be completed in six or seven two-hour classroom sessions. The course is meant to be of interest to the entire family; children are welcome. We encourage your family to attend as a group.