U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Safety Classes
Washington requires the following types of boat operators to obtain a Washington State Boater Education Card: If operating a vessel with a 15-horsepower (or greater) motor; were born after Jan. 1, 1955; are 12 years of age or older. (Some exemptions apply. See https://parks.wa.gov/about/rules-and-safety/boater-education-safety/boater-education-card)
The men and women of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary - Flotilla 11 remotely conduct an approved boating safety class – Boat America - via Zoom several times every Spring. After receiving a certificate for successfully completing the class, you are eligible to apply for the Washington State Boater Education Card.
This 8 hour course is held Monday through Thursday evenings; 6:30-8:30PM
Registration is $15 – plus $10 for a printed book, for a total of $25.
2026 Schedule: March 9-12, April 6-9, May 11-14
Please note that the orginally planned June class has been cancelled. The May class is the last one for the year.
From Alert 11
- Recreational Boating Safety: 2024 in Review
The Coast Guard's 2024 Recreational Boating Statistics Report recorded the fewest boating deaths on record, but paddle craft made up 26% of fatalities.
Northwest Maritime ApprenticeshipPam and Peter taught a class on personal protective equipment use to students in the Northwest Maritime Apprenticeship, which is entering its fourth year.
Bellingham Yacht Club ClassPam, Peter and Leslie taught boating safety topics to the Bellingham Yacht Club’s youth program at the club’s request.
Division 2 Public Ed ClassPam helped instruct an eleven-student Boat America boating safety class in Anacortes for Division 2.
USCG Band PerformanceThe U.S. Coast Guard Band performed at Western Washington University’s Performing Arts Center on Feb 22 during its centennial tour, and flotilla member Ray White staffed an Auxiliary information table.
Squalicum Harbor Opening DayFlotilla members hosted a table and displayed a flotilla facility at Squalicum Harbor's opening day.