Basic Boating Courses

Learn important and fundamental skills needed to operate a boat safely and responsibly with our free online courses for beginner and experienced boaters alike.

  • Online

    Aids to Navigation (ATON) Basics

    This course is designed to help new boaters understand the meaning of basic buoys and markers, typically referred to as Nav Aids, or more officially known as Aids to Navigation. With lots of interactive learning modules, engaging video scenarios and a knowledge review quiz, the student will have fun learning the basics of visual navigation.

    Course Details: Aids to Navigation (ATON) Basics
  • Online

    Clean Boating Course

    Clean water is an essential part of boating. This free course will show you the simple steps you can take to reduce the impact boating activities on our waterways.

    Course Details: Clean Boating Course
  • Online

    Nighttime Boating Basics

    This course introduces you to the basics of operating your boat at night. The essential rules, equipment requirements, and other safety considerations are discussed. Learn by viewing simulated scenarios and engage with interactive quizzes. Preparation and proper lookout will lead to nighttime peace of mind.

    Course Details: Nighttime Boating Basics
  • Online

    S.C.A.N. – Improving Boater Situational Awareness

    This course is designed to enhance boater situational awareness using the S.C.A.N. method to stay focused and avoid collisions. The course also offers practical strategies to mitigate common operator distractions. Through engaging video scenarios and interactive quizzes, learners will practice key techniques to reinforce their knowledge.

    Course Details: S.C.A.N. – Improving Boater Situational Awareness
  • Online

    Spill Prevention for Marina Staff

    This free course aims to teach marina staff about the simple steps they can take to prevent, plan for and respond to fuel and oil spills at their marina. While the course is geared toward new and seasonal staff, all marina staff can benefit.

    Course Details: Spill Prevention for Marina Staff

State Certifications

Boating Safety Courses

Learn everything you need to operate a boat safely and legally in the United States including navigation rules, safety equipment, and protecting the environment.

Experienced Boaters

Advanced Courses

There is always something new to learn, even as an experienced boater, so dive into our advanced courses like AIS Electronics for Boaters or On-Water Training.