Recreational Boating

AMSEA is conducting a Recreational Boating class in Sitka, Alaska. For boaters operating small power, wind and paddle-powered vessels on near-shore coastal waters and lakes. It is designed for new, inexperienced boaters as well as for more experienced individuals who are new to boating in Alaska.  The course length varies, as this basic course can be tailored to the needs and desires of groups such as teenage boaters, hunters who boat in winter conditions, kayakers, etc.

Topics in this class may include:

• Float plans

• Boating trip risk assessment

• Reading the weather

• Essential items for every boating trip

• Handling an outboard engine malfunction

• Retrieving someone who falls overboard

• Types of PFDs and their uses

• Cold water survival skills

• How to use a VHF radio

• How to make a proper Mayday call

• Types of emergency signals, including flares, and their proper use

Additional topics can be added depending upon the needs of your group.