Instructor Dave Fuller teaches a Boating Safety Class.
How about a brush-up on boating safety before the boating season begins in May?
America’s Boating Club Atlanta is offering its Basic Safe Boating Class for adults, youth and families, beginning on Saturday, January 31, with in-person instruction.
“At $25 per person, the class is a bargain,” said Cindy Ringwall, commander of America’s Boating Club Atlanta, based at Lake Lanier and Allatoona Lake. “By investing in a Saturday – when it’s probably cold outside – participants can learn about the recent changes in boating laws in Georgia, plus enhance their knowledge and skills.”
The class covers:
- Boat Handling – Docking and Trailering
- Safety Equipment and Procedures
- Navigation Basics – Rules of the Road
- Boat Types and Terminology
- Water sports – paddle craft, personal water craft (PWC) and towing.
“This is not just a class for beginners,” Ringwall said. “While it lays a foundation for safety on the water, it also appeals to experienced boaters who may want to refresh their skills.”
It is the nation’s premier basic boating safety course, having been approved by the US Coast Guard and the State of Georgia. The Corps of Engineers and Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) have teamed with America’s Boating Club Atlanta to offer this 8-hour course. All instructors are certified for teaching this class to the recreational boating public.
The class is approved by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) and by the National Association of the State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and fulfills Georgia’s state requirements for boater safety education.
“Another benefit of taking the Basic Safe Boating Class is that you may be able to save on your boat insurance after passing,” she said. “Check with your agent for details and eligibility.”
Here is the full schedule for the 2026 boating season, alternating between in-person instruction and online sessions:
In-person classes: Saturday, January 31, Saturday, May 2 and Saturday, August 8. Online Zoom classes take place in three sessions – two Wednesday evenings and a half-day on Saturdays: Wednesday, March 4 and 11, plus Saturday March 14; Wednesday, June 3, 10 and Saturday June 13.
Courses are taught by local America’s Boating Club Atlanta instructors.
The cost is $25 per person; a book accompanying the course costs $28 and is optional.
To register or to learn more about the club, visit americasboatingclubatlanta.org. For classes, click on the Education tab, the “Learn Basic Safe Boating.” The in-person classes will take place in the Lake Lanier area; specifics will be provided to those who register.
The club also sponsors both on-the-water and land-based activities, including raft-ups, socials and monthly membership meetings with expert speakers. Membership is open to the public.
Photo: by Pamela A. Keene
