The Deception Pass Sail & Power Squadron recently announced two new virtual boating courses starting in February 2021.
The first is a FREE seminar called “Partners in Command”, that teaches first mates and less experienced crew members how to take control of a vessel in the event of an emergency with the skipper. The second is a paid boat handling course for newer recreational boaters who have completed a basic boating class and want to gain more knowledge. Details are below.
Free Community Boating Seminar
How to Take Control of the Vessel in Case of Emergency
Whidbey and Fidalgo island boaters are invited to a free seminar, Partners in Command, designed to assist first mates and other less-experienced crew members to take control of a vessel in the event of disability or an emergency with the skipper. The seminar will be presented virtually by the Deception Pass Sail & Power Squadron via Zoom on Saturday, February 6 from 10 a.m. to noon.
According to squadron commander Pat Waters, the seminar is aimed at boaters who are used to always being the mate or passenger, not the skipper. “In case of an emergency, would the passenger be able to assist the skipper? Could they get the boat back to dock?” Waters asked.
The seminar covers:
- Starting the engine
- Stopping the engine/dropping the sails
- Emergency use of the VHF marine radio
- Anchoring
- Handling onboard emergencies
- Returning the boat to a dock
For the ZOOM sign-in information and instructions, please contact Steve Pye at stphnpye@aol.com or (360)540-2244.
Learn to Confidently Pilot a Boat
Boast Handling Course Teaches Basic Skills and Knowledge
Registration is now open for America’s Boating Club Boat Handling Course, intended for newer recreational boaters who have completed a basic boating class (like America’s Boating Course) and want to gain more knowledge, skill, and confidence to boat safely. Offered by the Deception Pass Sail & Power Squadron, the seven-week class will be offered virtually starting on Wednesday, February 10, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Boat Handling covers these topics:
- Rules of the Road: A Practical Approach
- Confidence in Docking and Undocking: Slow-Speed Maneuvering
- Boating with Confidence: Handling Your Boat Under Way
- Anchoring with Assurance: Don’t Get Carried Away
- Emergencies on Board: Preparation for Handling Common Problems
- Knots and Line Handling: The Knots You Need to Know
According to squadron commander Pat Waters, experienced instructors will enrich the course with local knowledge, experience, and discussion to help expand your boating horizons.
The cost for squadron members is $60/ $110 nonmembers. Please contact Steve Pye at stphnpye@aol.com or (360) 540-2244. Zoom sign-in information will be emailed prior to class-start date.
The Deception Pass Sail and Power Squadron (DPSPS) is a 44-year-old nonprofit organization. DPSPS has over 75 members from Whidbey and Fidalgo islands. We are part of America’s Boating Club, a squadron of the United States Power Squadrons, a non-profit boating organization dedicated to education & training of safe boating activities.
Photo courtesy of the Deception Pass Sail & Power Squadron Facebook page.
