Where to learn boating

Many boating courses are offered throughout the country. The coast guard auxiliary, u-s power squadrons, and most states offer courses for all types of recreational boaters. Courses range from 'water 'n kids' to a course for boaters who want to learn electronic navigation skills. The most popular courses -- those required before taking any of the advanced courses -- generally are 6 to 13 lessons in length. The u-s coast guard auxiliary is comprised of 36,000 volunteers dedicated to safer recreational boating. They undergo special training so they can assist the United States coast guard in teaching boating courses and water safety. U-S power squadrons, commonly referred to as U-S-P-S, offers safety courses around the U-S. For your local U-S-P-S chapter, call 1- 800-828-3380. Colleges and universities located close to water sometimes offer a variety of courses on sailing and marine skills to the public at a nominal cost. The Red Cross also provides courses in first aid, C-P-R, swimming, lifesaving, lifeguarding, and boating safety.