Under its mandatory boating safety education law, youth who wish to operate a vessel powered by an engine of 10 hp or greater must satisfy the State s boating education requirements. The purpose of the course is to teach boating safety skills, boat handling skills and environmental responsibility to present and future boaters. This is achieved through visual aids, hands-on demonstration and underway practice under the leadership of instructors who are maritime professionals.
Training includes classroom and underway boat handling.
The Florida Boating Basics Examination is administered at the conclusion of this program. In addition, a certificate of completion is awarded to students who attend the entire course and pass the Florida Boating Basics exam as required. Certification for this program may also qualify the boat owner for marine insurance discounts and is now required by some insurance underwriters. Each class is limited to a minimum of 3 students and a maximum of 8 students. The minimum acceptable age is 11 years.