The YMCA of Beaufort County, located at 1801 Richmond Avenue in Port Royal, in partnership with the Spirit of America Foundation, America’s Premier Youth Boating Education Program, is offering their week long boating program for youth/teens age 11-15. This hands-on camp will be led by YMCA Boating Director Paul Spencer with assistance from a team of certified staff and volunteers. Register at the YMCA, located at 1801 Richmond Ave., in Port Royal or online: ymcabeaufortcounty.com.

The camp will take place April 13-17, 2015 at the YMCA in Port Royal for instructional classes, followed by on-the-water training at The Port Royal Sound Maritime Center dock (310 Okatie Highway).

The program not only emphasizes safety around the water and in using (5) different types of watercraft but students take the SC DNR Boating License class and exam. An important goal of the program is also to instill a sense of appreciation and respect for our lovely and unique Lowcountry environment. According to the 2010 Beaufort County Comprehensive Plan, of the county’s 468,000 acres, approximately 51% consists of open water, sounds, marshes, and estuaries.

“Beaufort County consists of more water than land, which is incredibly wonderful. Yet, it also presents a safety challenge,” states Director Paul Spencer. “One of our most important goals at the Y is to teach folks how to swim. In our geographic area this is not enough however, we also need to teach the skills needed to get out on the water safely and with confidence. Students should expect a lot of learning plus an abundance of fun – it is spring break after all.”

The Y Boating Program is the only program of its kind in Beaufort County and the YMCA will offer financial aid to those who may not otherwise be able to participate.

If you are interested in more information about this program please contact Paul Spencer: at the YMCA: 843-522-9622. Register online at ymcabeaufortcounty.com or at the YMCA (Port Royal). This program is for youth age 11-15 and cost is $50 per student for the entire week of classes. Registration deadline is March 15, 2015 and class size is limited so register soon!