Enroll Now in March Safe Boater Classes. Taught by OBX U.S. Coast Guard – Certified Instructors

Punxsutawney Phil predicts six more weeks of winter. That gives you just enough time to improve your safe boating skills before the season starts, and take the one boat safety class you need to pass the test for your North Carolina Boater Education Card.

Two Safe Boater courses are on deck in March:

  • Boat America Safety Class
  • OBX Waterways: A Virtual Tour from the Boater’s Perspective

BOAT AMERICA SAFETY CLASS

Sign up for the only boat safety class taught locally by Outer Banks U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary certified instructors. No need to struggle with online self-taught classes, no more guessing what you need for the test. You can finish everything in this one-and-done class.

It’s nearby, too. This one-day class is held at the Southern Shores Fire Department. Learn what you need to pass the test for the North Carolina Boater Education Card. Plus, get hands-on tips from Outer Banks U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary members who boat in these local waters.

Why choose the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary OBX Boat America Safety Class?

It’s taught by U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary certified instructors who know these local waters. Their advice is very helpful. You will get the course material and take the exam on the same day. No more trying to find your place in a self-guided course.

The class material meets North Carolina requirements for the NC Boater Education Card, and it’s valid for a lifetime. The exam is on the same day, too.

What will this Boater Education Card do for me?

  • Get comprehensive safety training to ensure you have safe boating skills.
  • Learn about navigation rules, boating law, and safe boating tips.
  • Learn about registrations, rules, and requirements by the state and federal governments.
  • Safe operation of your watercraft, docking, and trailering.
  • Types of boats, boating terms, and boating equipment.
  • Safety equipment, life jackets, fire extinguishers, and anchors.
  • Sound-producing devices and visual distress signals.
  • Emergency procedures, fire extinguishers, and life jackets.
  • Meets all North Carolina requirements.
  • Proof that you finished all parts of an approved boater safety class.
  • Valid for a lifetime.

When and where is the Boat America Safety Class?

The one boat safety course you need to pass the test for your North Carolina Boater Education Card:

When:  Saturday, March 7, 2026. One required class.

Where:  Southern Shores Fire Station at 15 S Dogwood Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949

Time:  8:30am – 4:30pm

First Person: $40

Additional Persons: $35

The registration fee covers all materials, the test, and refreshments.

Is the NC Boater Education Card required?

Yes, it is required if you are:

  • A North Carolina boater,
  • Born on or after January 1, 1988, and
  • Operate a motorized watercraft of 10 HP or more.
  • If this is you, then you’re required to have a valid NC Boater Education Card on board.

What if you were born before January 1, 1988?

You can still take the class and get the card. It’s a good credential to have in your wallet, even though you don’t have to. Being certified in safe boating helps make your time on the water safer and more fun. Even for seasoned boaters, the course offers a valuable chance to refresh your knowledge of local waterway regulations and enhance your safety practices. Broaden your skills and enjoy a more confident boating experience.

How do I enroll in the March Boat America Safety Class?

Enrollment is easy for the March 7, 2026 Boat America Safety Class. Enroll online here.

Seats are limited. They fill up fast, so you’ll want to secure your spot early. You’ll be glad you did.

 

OBX WATERWAYS: A VIRTUAL TOUR FROM THE BOATER’S PERSPECTIVE

This new Safe Boater class, taught by local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary members, fills up fast. No more worrying if you’ll run out of gas before finding a fuel pump. Or accidentally finding a danger area under your boat the hard way. This is especially helpful for boaters who have little experience on the OBX waterways.

This online class uses OpenCPN navigation software and Google Earth Pro with NOAA map data. It gives you a clear view of the Outer Banks sounds, rivers, and channels so you can find what you need when you need it:

  • Where to fuel up.
  • Launch your boat.
  • Locate marinas.
  • Spot danger areas.

Once you’re comfortable with safe boating, the waterways are a fun way to access attractions and enjoy the Outer Banks. This seminar will also show you where to:

  • Shop and have lunch.
  • Swim and play water sports.
  • And maybe, where you can catch a few fish!

Tour OBX Waterways north to south from the Currituck Sound to the North Pamlico Sound. Whether you’re planning to bring your boat to the Outer Banks or you’re already here, this online class will help make your adventures on the water safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

OBX Waterways One Day Online Seminar

Sign up for this 2-hour online tour to have a safe and easy trip on the OBX waterways.

When: Monday, March 2, 2026

Where: Virtual online

Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Per Person: $20

How do I enroll in the March OBX Waterways Virtual Online Tour?

The online class is now open for enrollment. It’s easy. Register OBX Waterways online, here.

Everything you need to enroll is accessible through the online registration. Spots go quickly. Early registration is recommended before it sells out.

About the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed auxiliary service of the United States Coast Guard.  It comprises 26,000 members who volunteer their time to support the Coast Guard’s operations, promote and improve recreational boating safety, and provide trained crews and facilities to enhance the safety and security of our citizens, US ports, waterways, and coastal regions. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the largest volunteer marine safety organization in the world. The Coast Guard’s motto is Semper Paratus, meaning “Always Ready“. Visit our website, www.cgauxobx.org