Boating safety is a prime concern of  the San Carlos Bay Sail and Power Squadron. To educate boaters, we will be presenting another “Boat Smart”® class soon.

As boating is often a family activity, the course is of value to all members of a boating family. USPS encourages families to attend as groups. Qualified, enthusiastic, and experienced USPS instructors provide instruction as a civic service.

The class will cover the basics of boat handling, PWCs, required equipment, navigation aids and rules, and dealing with emergencies. “Boat Smart”® will provide instruction and examination for laws and regulations of the State of Florida. This course meets the educational standards of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and features a proctored examination as required by many states and insurance companies.

While the content of this student manual serves as the basis for this course, it will also serve as a reference book in basic boating long after the course work is completed. Additional requirements of Florida are covered as well and 10 additional questions specific to Florida are included in the exam. Successful completion of a course also entitles the student to membership in any Squadron within the USPS.

These basics are helpful for coastal and inland waters and could prove beneficial in adverse weather conditions. Students are encouraged to use Boat Smart as a safe boating introduction and continue their learning. A broader base of knowledge can be gained through completion of additional courses which are available to all who choose to become members of a Squadron of the USPS. Boat Smart does not include piloting or course plotting.

The Squadron believes that the more educated a boater becomes, the more likely that boater will be a safe boater. “Boat Smart”® is just the beginning of  boating education. We encourage students to follow this brief and basic course with additional boating education such as the courses offered to members of the United States Power Squadrons.

 The course is a total of 8 hours spread over two days. Topics include the following.