The Sunshine Coast Power & Sail Squadron presents its boating essentials course this Saturday, March 1 starting at 9 a.m. at Roberts Creek Elementary School.
While the personal watercraft operator card (PCOC) is the minimum government requirement, this course takes you to the higher level of competence that Coasters need to safely enjoy the boating experiences offered here on the Strait of Georgia with its spectacular inlets, bays and islands.
Technology is changing the way we navigate, but in order to use modern electronic devices, you need to understand the principles of charts and coastal navigation. Topics that include compass, plotting, conning, anchoring, lines, ropes, global positioning system (GPS), and digital charts, will increase your boating knowledge and improve your enjoyment and safety.
Reliable effective communications are also vital to your on the water safety and the way to ensure this is to carry a marine VHF radio.
At Chatelech Secondary School in Sechelt on March 26 and 31, the Maritime radio course includes the emergency use of marine VHF radios and every day operating techniques. Included is the exam for the restricted operator certificate, which is required to legally operate these radios that are made specifically for use at sea.
Sunshine Coasters who want to enjoy boating in some of the world’s finest waters have these great opportunities to learn from a local team of volunteer instructors who are ready to share their knowledge and experience.
Register today on-line at www.boatingcourses.ca or by contacting training officer Keith Maxwell at 604-740-8124.
