Our new Boat Handling course is intended for newer recreational boaters who have completed a basic boating class (like America's Boating Course) and want to gain more knowledge, skill, and confidence to boat safely and have more fun in a variety of situations. Boat Handling covers these topics: +Rules of the Road: A Practical Approach, +Confidence in Docking and Undocking, +And Slow-Speed Maneuvering, +Boating with Confidence: Handling Your Boat Under Way, +Anchoring with Assurance: Don't Get Carried Away, +Emergencies on Board: Preparation for Handling Common Problems, +Knots and Line Handling: The Knots You Need to Know. Our instructors will enrich the course with local knowledge, experience, and discussion that will help you expand your boating horizons. This course is six sessions with a final examination. This program is presented by U.S. Power Squadron.

Learn the basics of coastal navigation using local charts, parallel ruler, and dividers. Learn what the symbols mean, how to determine safe and dangerous routes, create courses, learn rules of the “road”, what aids to navigation look like and do, plan for emergencies and more. For kayakers, sailors, powerboaters, and future Registered Maine Guides. Students will need access to either a Casco Bay Chart or Penobscot Bay Chart, parallel ruler and dividers. This is a Zoom class.

The most comprehensive in-person boating course available, America’s Boating Course, gives you the skills you need to enjoy your time on the water and boat with confidence. Our boater safety class meets most states’ certification requirements. Taking a boating class reduces your risk of accidents and injuries, saves you money on boat insurance, and qualifies you for a state boat license or operator certificate in most states. Our in-person boating course includes a comprehensive introduction to boating, covering boat types, boat engines, boat selection, and more. You’ll learn about boating laws and regulations as well as boat registration and licensing. Get in-depth knowledge of boating safety equipment, and learn how to become a safe boater by learning the dos and don’ts of boater safety. Gain practical knowledge of navigation, rules of the road, handling emergencies and mechanical problems on the water, the basics of towing and trailering, important information for hunters, anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and so much more. Four sessions with a NASBLA approved examination. The cost for couples sharing materials is $95. Please call Merrymeeting Adult Education for the couples discount. No other discounts. ***Class will meet on the following Tuesdays & Thursdays: 4/1, 4/3, 4/8, 4/10, 4/15 (exam day). This program is presented by U.S. Power Squadron.