MA Offers Free Boating Safety Courses for 2015

BOAT MASSACHUSETTS is a state and nationally approved boating safety course, concentrating on the equipment and operating guidelines needed to enjoy boating in a safe and responsible way.

All graduates in the 12- through 15-year-old age group will be issued a safety certificate, allowing them to operate a motorboat without adult supervision, as required by state law. The same is true for 16- and 17-year-old youth who wish to operate a personal watercraft (Jet Ski, Wave Runner).

The course runs 10 to 12 hours. The normal format is 5 to 6 two-hour classes, although this may vary. All classes are free of charge. Classes are for adults and youth 12 and older. Family participation is encouraged.

Boating Safety Course Schedule

• Dalton – Dalton Police Department – March 4, 11, 18 and 25
• Quincy – Hough’s Neck Maritime Center– March 7, 14 and 21
• Gloucester – Gloucester High School – March 23, 24, 25, 30 and 31
• Beverly – Jubilee Yacht Club – March 24, 25 and April 1
• Ashburnham – Public Safety Complex – March 24, 26, 31 and April 2
• Quincy – Hough’s Neck Maritime Center – March 28, April 4 and 11
• North Andover – Andover Sportsman’s Club – March 31, April 7, 14, 21 and 28
• Hull – Nantasket Beach Saltwater Club – April 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30
• Marshfield – Boys and Girls Club – April 27, 29 and May 1
• Quincy – Hough’s Neck Maritime Center – April 28, May 5 and 12
• Marion – Marion Police Department – May 2 and May 9
• Mashpee – Mashpee High School – May 6, 13, 20, 27 and June 3
• Marshfield – Boys and Girls Club – May 13 and 16
• Marion – Marion Police Department – June 6 and June 13