Boater Safety Course & Maryland Boater Safety Course

Course Curriculum for
Maryland Boater Safety Course

The Maryland Boater’s Safety Course is required for any person operating a vessel in Maryland Waters born after 1972.

What You'll Learn

Safety

The student will be instructed on what is required to be on board a vessel operating in Maryland under the rules and regulations of the Department of Natural Resources (“DNR”) in MD. Students will be instructed on the proper use of safety equipment in addition to what will happen if they are boarded by a DNR Officer. Students will also be instructed on what the rules and regulations are when the vessel is underway. In addition, students will also be instructed on anchoring in emergency situations.

Weather

Participants will be taught precautionary measures to insure safe vessel operation pending weather conditions and to look at forecasts to determine whether or not boating plans should be altered.

Hands-on Training/Vessel Operation ​

Students will have the advantage of actual operation of a 17ft. Boston Whaler (90hp) and/or a 24ft Sea Ray (225hp). Instruction will include but not be limited to: docking, the use of lines for docking, navigation, steering, forward and reverse, limited engine and electronic check list for operating a vessel safely. Students will take the helm of the vessel on Main and Bodkin Creeks and be proficient in safe navigation in our local waters. Our goal upon completion of training is to have each student safely and effectively operate a vessel in boat traffic in addition to understanding and utilizing Navigational Aids.

Man Overboard

Students will engage in actual man-overboard training and retrieval of objects. The student will practice the safe retrieval of objects that are overboard and be taught specific instructions on the protocol and procedures.

Vessel Terminology

Students will be instructed on the parts of a vessel and the accurate nautical terminology when operating a vessel.

Knots

Participants will be instructed on the correct use of slip knots, bowlines, hitches, cleat tying, fender placement, and figure eight knots. Students will be taught the practical use of each knot.

Summary

Participants will learn and practice these skills in a classroom setting and on the water. By the end of the course, students will gain confidence when operating a small vessel with a single outboard. Upon successful completion of the course and additional homework assignments, students will be prepared to take the Junior Boaters Course which meets all mandatory boating education requirements in 49 U.S. States.

Participants Should Bring the Following

Participants should bring their own USCG PFD (lifejacket). Participants should consider bringing the following: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, filled water bottle, lunch, towel, and weather-appropriate clothing (rain jacket).

Course Schedule

Saturdays and Sundays 8:30am – 2:30pm prior to June
or
Wednesday’s and Thursday’s 8:30am – 2:30pm

See schedule in registration section below for exact dates offered.

Register for the Maryland Boater Safety Course

If the participant is under 18 years of age we request parent contact information
Fill out my online form.

Today's Fuel Prices

89 Octane
$4.90 per gallon
Non Ethanol 90
$5.45 per gallon
Diesel
$4.10 per gallon
Note: Fuel prices subject to change without notice.
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