Great South Bay YMCA Holds Boating Safety Course

The Great South Bay YMCA will hold an in-depth boating safety course open to the public on Saturday, May 9, 2015 from 8:00am – 5:00pm at 200 W. Main Street, Bay Shore, NY 11706. The 8-hour course, taught by Coast Guard Auxiliary certified instructors, will cover boating law, equipment, conduct and protocol, navigation principles, lights, sound and emergency response. The course meets all current federal and state requirements for the operation of power-driven vessels and jet skis.

“The YMCA takes water safety very seriously in our pools and in our communities,” stated Anne Brigis, President and CEO of the YMCA of Long Island. “We hope this boating course will peak the interest of both new and experienced boaters throughout Long Island. It’s just in time for boating season.”

A certificate will be awarded to participants upon completion of the course. The course and certificate are nationally recognized and meet the requirements of the New York State law enacted in May 2014. Major marine insurers offer discounts to vessel owners who provide proof of course completion.

Course fees cover books and all course materials. For youth ages 11-18, the course costs $35. For adults, the course costs $50 and there is a family discount of $50 for the first adult and $35 for additional adults. Five dollars per attendee will be donated to the YMCA Annual Support Campaign, to help fund memberships for people in the community who cannot afford them. YMCA membership is not required to take the course.

The YMCA is a leader in providing programs that strengthen the mind, body and spirit connection. Long Islanders of all ages and fitness levels learn to live their healthiest lives inside the YMCA’s state-of-the-art facilities in Brookhaven, East Hampton, Glen Cove,Bay Shore, Huntington and Patchogue. The YMCA of Long Island is a cause-driven nonprofit organization that works to strengthen communities through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For information and locations, visit www.ymcali.org, or call the Great South Bay YMCA at (631) 665-4255.

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