Starting in 2008 boaters 20 years old and younger will be required to have a Boaters Education Card issued by the Washington Stater Parks Department to operate most boats.

In 2009 it affects all boaters 25 and younger and more boaters will be affected as the years roll by. To meet this education requirement the Bremerton Sail and Power Squadron will b offering America’s Boating Course on March 31st and April 1st.

The two-day class will begin on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. with a half-hour break for lunch. It is recommended that you bring a sack lunch. On Sunday the final session will begin at 12:00 p.m and end at 4:30 p.m. The class will be held at the Port Orchard Yacht Club, 201 Bay Street, Port Orchard.

The course is for all boaters. Subjects include boat handling under normal conditions, adverse conditions and emergencies: types of boats and boating terminology: required and recommended equipment: boating regulations and navigation rules: lines and knots: aids to navigation: marine radiotelephone usage: and trailer boating.

Course materials is suitable for those 16 and older. The workbook is $35.00. A $5.00 fee is charged for those (from the same household) sharing a book.

Pre-registration is not required. The course meets the educational requirements for boating operation in all states. Boaters may receive a discount on their boat insurance upon successful completion of the class.

For information, call Mike Shutes at (360) 895-2731.

This article is courtesy of the Gateway