A state-required boating safety course will be offered in-person this month at the Watkins Glen Yacht Club, allowing boaters to earn their New York State Boater Safety Education Certificate.
The eight-hour course, hosted by the Finger Lakes Chapter of America’s Boating Club, will be held on Monday evenings—August 11 and 18 from 6 to 9 p.m. A final review and exam will take place on Monday, August 25, starting at 6 p.m. Classes will be held at the yacht club, located at 300 South Clute Park Road, just past the Clute Park Community Center.
The course fee ranges from $35 to $45, depending on whether a student wants to keep the course materials. For families, a discounted rate of $10 is available for a second person if they share a manual.
Class size is limited, and advance registration is required. For more information or to sign up, contact Education Officer Katie Alley at [email protected].
Instructors will cover key elements of boating safety, including docking, maneuvering, anchoring, lighting, navigation laws, emergency procedures, and more.
“This course is taught by passionate instructors who have decades of on-the-water experience,” said Alley, emphasizing the value of hands-on learning.
Under Brianna’s Law, all boaters in New York—regardless of age—must now hold a Boater Safety Certificate to legally operate motorized vessels, including jet skis and sailboats with motors. The only major exceptions are for those renting boats.
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