Now that spring is finally here and the weather is getting warmer, soon it will be boating season. Boothbay Region Adult & Community Education is offering two U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary boating courses.

Navigating Mid-Coast Maine is an introduction to navigation using a chart of the Boothbay area. Make boating more enjoyable: learn the basics about information found on nautical charts; have your charts out where you can use them when enjoying Maine’s Midcoast waters; and learn about navigation aids (on the charts and on the water) so you can use them to cruise safely.

Learn how to read a chart and become familiar with the coastal waters between Small Point and Pemaquid. Problem sets will help you plan cruises and understand the information found on charts (buoys, lights, water depth) to use them when cruising the area. True and magnetic headings, variation, lines of position, chart symbols, piloting, latitude and longitude, and dead reckoning are explained. Three Rivers chart (#13293) and a copy of a chapter on navigation principles are included. A parallel ruler and dividers are needed. They can be purchased at class separately. This four session course meets on April 29, May 1, 6, and 8, 6 to 8 p.m. The fee is $75.

About Boating Safely is an introduction to boating. Topics covered include types of boats, trailering, required safety equipment, legal requirements, navigating waterways, safe operation, boating emergencies, and water sports. The course is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. Successful completion of an optional exam at the end of the class leads to a certificate to show you have taken a boating course. The certificate is required to operate a boat in most states and also Canada. Many insurance companies offer discounts on insurance if you have a certificate. This is also a four session course on May 13, 15, 20 and 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. The fee is $70.

Both boating courses are at Boothbay Region High School, and advance registration is required. Please complete a registration form (you can print one from our website: www.boothbayae.org). Include payment and mail it to: Boothbay Region Adult Ed, 236 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538. You can also drop off your registration and payment in the high school office weekdays. If you have questions or need more info, call 207-633-3224 or email boothbayae@gwi.net.