RSU16 Adult Education

Boat America - A Course for Responsible Boating

“Boat America” is the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) Boating Safety Course endorsed by the State of Maine and required to obtain your Maine Boating Safety Certificate card.

This is a comprehensive introductory course designed to meet the boating education needs of recreational boaters and includes specific requirements established by Maine Boating Laws. This course will provide general information about boats and maintenance, information to make your boating experience safer and more comfortable, and tips on how to be a more courteous boat operator. Students will receive a manual with the course and must pass a NASBLA exam at the end of the course to obtain the Maine Boating Safety Certificate card. Students should plan to bring lunch to class.

Topics Include:

Chapter 1: Know Your Boat

Chapter 2: Before You Get Underway

Chapter 3: Operating Your Boat Safely

Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating

Chapter 5: Boating Emergencies...What to Do

Chapter 6: Enjoying Water Sports with Your Boat

Beginning January 1, 2024, a person ages 12 to 25 (increasing by one year every year thereafter) that operates a boat with a motor greater than 25HP on inland waters of this State or territorial waters (3 miles offshore) will be required to have successfully completed a state mandated Boating Safety Education course and possess and present for inspection a State Issued Boater Safety and Education Certificate Card.