Boat Smart™ is a course for all boaters (the personal watercraft
operator; the hunter or fisherman operating an outboard utility boat; the
skipper of a family cruiser; the sailing enthusiast). All boaters must follow
the same nautical rules, regulations, and courtesies of the sea. All are subject
to the same forces of nature while boating.
As boating is often a family activity, the course is of value to all members
of a boating family. USPS encourages families to attend as groups.
Qualified, enthusiastic, and experienced USPS instructors provide instruction
as a civic service. There is never a charge for instruction; the only costs are
those for materials, plus overhead costs such as classroom rental, shipping and
handling, sales tax, etc.
While the content of this student manual serves as the basis for this course,
it will also serve as a reference book in basic boating long after the course
work is completed. The course meets the educational standards of the National
Association of State Boating Law Administrators and features a proctored
examination as required by many states and insurance companies. Where required,
the course will provide instruction and examination for laws and regulations of
state and local authorities in the area where the course is taught.
USPS believes that the more educated a boater becomes, the more likely that
boater will be a safe boater. Boat Smart is the beginning of a boating
education. USPS encourages students to follow this brief and basic course with
additional boating education such as the courses offered to members of the
United States Power Squadrons. Your instructor can give you information about
these advanced courses.
Link to our boating course schedule.
