With the summer boating season just around the corner, boaters on Lake Erie’s West/Central Basin can boost their confidence on the water with a little help from Erie Islands Sailing & Powerboating School, which offers at-the-helm training on both power- and sailboats at every level. New this year is a partnership with the nonprofit BoatUS Foundation, which brings a series of four three-hour On-Water Training courses for beginners to advanced boaters, including docking, close quarters maneuvering and open-water boat handling.

Erie Islands Sailing & Powerboating School is currently the only BoatUS Foundation On-Water Training partner on Lake Erie and across the Great Lakes. In addition, the company offers American Boating (powerboat), American Sailing (formerly ASA) and Ohio Boating Education Course (OBEC) certification as well as private lessons, new boat owner orientation, boat deliveries and boat moves. The company has provided Toledo-, Sandusky- and Cleveland-area boaters on-water training since 2012.

“The on-water learning part of being a recreational boater today is key, and now, just before season starts, is the best time to boost your skills and confidence,” said company owner Tricia Purvis. “Our BoatUS Foundation three-hour courses fit into busy schedules, and then with our American Powerboating and ASA options, you can continue to advance your training journey. Our vessels range in size from single-engine powerboats to larger multi-engine vessels and sailboats.”

BoatUS Foundation On-Water Training class size is limited to four students per vessel, ensuring each student gets sufficient time at the helm under the watchful eye of a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain. Courses follow the curriculum of the National Safe Boating Council, allowing for a modular progression of training that builds upon previous work. Minimum age to participate is 16 years old.

BoatUS Foundation On-Water Training programs are offered at 21 locations across the U.S. Find a course or register at BoatUS.org/On-Water.