America's Boating Course
Materials Fee: $45.00
Dates: Mondays, May 19 through June 23 (no class May 26; 5 sessions)
Time: 6:45 to 9:00
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. While all sessions will be available online, you must be present on June 23 to take the certification test. The link will be published weekly to registered participants.
Questions? education@stpaulsquadron.org
Sail Course
Materials Fee: $150.00 (non-members), $75.00 (members)
Dates: Mondays May 19 through July 14, 2025 (8 sessions; no class May 26)
Time: 7:00 to 9:00
Location: Online on your computer using GoToMeeting
Instructors: Bill Dohr, Greg Korstad, Dan Saniti
Sail is a complete sail course created to serve the needs of the novice and experienced sailor, as well as the non-sailor, for basic skills and knowledge. The course starts with basic sailboat designs and nomenclature, rigging, safety and sail processes. It continues with the physical aspects of sailing forces and techniques, sail applications, marlinespike, helmsmanship and handling of more difficult sailing conditions. Navigation rules and an introduction to heavy weather sailing are also discussed. Appendices in the manual provide an introduction to sailboat racing and sailing in Canadian waters.
Course completion is documented by a closed book exam to be scheduled by the St Paul Squadron Education Officer.
For more information, please contact the St. Paul Squadron Education Officer: education@stpaulsquadron.org
Members: Please register on the Member Classes page.