From staff reports
A new South Carolina state law took effect August 18, 2023 requiring teens to take a boating course if they wish to go out on a boat on their own anywhere on state waterways.
The new requirement covers individuals currently 16 years old and younger. The new law states any type of watercraft, including personal watercraft, with a 10 horsepower engine or greater.
The Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club and Beaufort Sail & Power Squadron, now known as America’s Boating Club of Beaufort, in conjunction with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), will host a free four-hour Safety Boating Class on Saturday, April 20. This course will be held at the Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club, 30 Yacht Club Drive, off Meridian Road on Lady’s Island.
Those interested may select one of the two sessions being offered on this day. One will be from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and the second will be from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. The course is free and all material will be furnished. However, attendees should bring materials to take notes.
A test will be administered at the conclusion of the class. Upon successful completion of this class, SCDNR will issue a waterproof certificate for each applicant.
Interested individuals should go on-line to register, using the links provided below.
S.C. Boating Education Class – April 20, 2024 Morning Session: https://bit.ly/3THqatv.
S.C. Boating Education Class – April 20, 2024 Afternoon Session: https://bit.ly/4clv86y.
Applicants are encouraged to register for either one of the classes as soon as possible as there are a limited number of seats for each class. Other states that have implemented versions of this program have seen a very significant decrease in boating accidents and injuries, particularly for younger boaters. For additional information email Commander Frank Gibson at fgibson@islc.net.
