America's Boating Course
Materials Fee: $35.00
Dates: Saturdays, April 12 and 19, 2025 (2 sessions)
Time: 8:30 to 5:00
Location: Bayport Marina Clubhouse (200 5th Ave So, Bayport) or Online via your computer
Become a safer, more confident boater!
America’s Boating Course is the most comprehensive, single source, in-person boating course available to provide both new and experienced boaters the skills needed to safely enjoy time on the water. Topics include: rules of the road; required safety equipment; navigation aids, lights and sounds; anchoring; communications; adverse conditions; water sports and personal watercraft safety; trailering; local and federal laws; and knots & lines. This course is perfect if you are a new boat owner or just want to freshen up your knowledge. Local information, discussion with other boaters, and ample time for questions expand on the course curriculum to broaden students' boating knowledge.
This course is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard and approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. It meets all Minnesota and Wisconsin requirements for obtaining boating license and operator certification. Instructors are NASBLA-certified and members of the local St. Paul Sail and Power Squadron.
This course is considered the first step in joining America's Boating Club. If you know of people considering membership, please refer them to this course, and this website.
We strongly recommend taking this class in person to maximize your investment of time and resources. However, it will be available online as well. The link will be published weekly to registered participants.
We strongly recommend taking this class in person to maximize your investment of time and resources. However, it will be available online as well. The link will be published weekly to registered participants.
NOTE: The test required for NASBLA certification must be taken in person - Saturday afternoon, April 19.
Questions? education@stpaulsquadron.org
Boat Handling Class (Formerly Seamanship)
Materials Fee: $75.00 (members), $150.00 (non-members)
Dates: Wednesdays, March 19 through April 30, 2025 (7 weeks)
Time: 7:00 to 9:00
Location: Bayport Marina Clubhouse (200 5th Ave So, Bayport) or Online via your computer
Boat Handling, which replaces Seamanship, is the next course to take if you’ve already taken an introductory boating class such as America’s Boating Course. The class is conducted in six sessions:
* Rules of the Road
* Confidence in Docking
* Handling Your Boat Underway
* Anchoring with Assurance
* Emergencies on Board
* Knots and Line Handling
The seventh week (April 30), there will be a written test. Members who complete the course and pass the test will be granted the advanced grade of "Seaman."
We strongly recommend taking this class in person to maximize your investment of time and resources. However, it will be available online as well. The link will be published weekly to registered participants.
NOTE: The test required to certify course completion must be taken in person on April 30.
For more information, please contact the St. Paul Squadron Education Officer: education@stpaulsquadron.org
Members: Please register on the Member Classes page.