Experienced boaters need to make the time to attend a Safe Boating Class. Things change, from navigating the waterways to regulatory compliance. This is a simple way to get updated as classes are given every third Saturday of the month.
Boating enthusiasts seeking to obtain the state boating safety certificate are encouraged to enroll in a one-day responsible boating class on the third Saturday of the month, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Classes are held at the Pine Ridge Community Center located at 15660 Pine Ridge Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908. Completion of the course will make participants eligible for the state boating certificate.
Robert Guenthner, the Flotilla Commander of Fort Myers Beach Flotilla 91, stresses the importance of education and awareness of boating hazards. Guenthner stated, “Don’t leave boating safely up to luck. Attending an in-person class is an excellent opportunity for students to interact, share perspectives, and gain local knowledge. Participants learn about the importance of life jackets, risk reduction, preparedness, and exercising sound judgment together with updates for regulatory compliance.” He went on to say, “One of the takeaways from the class is students comment that they didn’t realize what they did not know, which puts it into perspective.”
According to Florida law, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, who plans to operate a boat in Florida waters with an engine of 10 horsepower or more must complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Florida boating safety ID card. This card certifies that the person has completed the required boating safety course, but it is not a boating license.
The one-day class costs $45 per person and includes study materials. For additional information about boating safety classes or registration for a class, visit www.Aux91FMB.org/Safeboating or contact Kevin McTaggart, Public Education Officer, cgaux91education@gmail.com, at 239-690-6780 option 1.
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed, volunteer component of the Coast Guard created by Congress in 1939. It is comprised of over 18,000 members who volunteer their time to support the operation of the Coast Guard, promote and improve recreational boating safety, and provide trained crews and facilities to enhance the safety and security of US ports, waterways, and coastal regions. For more information, please visit www.cgaux.org.
