The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water has launched two new free online microcourses designed to strengthen boaters’ understanding of navigation and nighttime operations. The courses, “Aids to Navigation Basics” and “Nighttime Boating Basics,” join the Foundation’s growing lineup of short, interactive lessons that can be completed in less than 30 minutes at BoatUS.org/Courses.
The first course, “Aids to Navigation (ATON) Basics,” helps boaters learn the meanings behind essential buoys and markers, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a proper lookout and using up-to-date charts when underway. Meanwhile, “Nighttime Boating Basics,” tackles one of the most challenging scenarios on the water: operating after dark. Participants learn how to prepare their vessels for limited visibility, comply with navigation light requirements, and adapt safely to evening conditions.
“Annual U.S. Coast Guard statistics have shown that understanding ATONs and the challenges of nighttime boating are perennial issues for boat operators,” said Ted Sensenbrenner, Director of Boating Safety at BoatUS Foundation. “We’re excited to bridge the gap to help address operator inattention and improper lookout, which are some of the leading causes of boating accidents.”
Both courses incorporate video quizzes, interactive simulations, and brief modules designed to help boaters retain core navigation skills. They don’t fulfill any state-mandated boater education requirements, but instead, complement the Foundation’s NASBLA-approved boating safety course, which satisfies legal requirements in 37 states.
Funded through a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and administered by the U.S. Coast Guard, the new courses support national boating safety initiatives by making critical education accessible to the public free of charge.
The BoatUS Foundation continues to be a leading advocate for safer and cleaner waterways. With its expanding suite of online learning tools, the organization provides an easy, flexible way for new and experienced boaters alike to refresh their skills and reduce risk on the water.
Boaters can sign up for Aids to Navigation Basics and Nighttime Boating Basics, or browse the Foundation’s full list of safety courses, by visiting BoatUS.org/Courses.
