The Coast Guard Auxiliary will hold two classes for recreational boaters at the Boothbay Region Community Center. Space is limited to 10 people in each course. To register for either class call 207-633-4748 or email davidbeastwood@gmail.com. Checks should be made payable to: USCG Flotilla 2-5.

Suddenly in Command is for people who do not have much experience on the water. Safe boating requires planning and preparation as well as careful operation. Steps to take to minimize boating problems and basic emergency procedures are covered. Topics include pre-underway planning, developing situational awareness, understanding how boats handle, VHF radio introduction including how to get help in an emergency, Coast Guard required safety equipment and regulations, and accident assessment and reporting.

Date and time: Aug. 2 and 3 from 5:30 to 7:30 each night.

Cost: $40 per student.

Navigating Mid Coast Maine is an introduction to navigation and how to read the information found on navigation charts and chart plotters. Here are three easy ways to make boating more enjoyable: 1) learn the basics about the information found on nautical charts including GPS charts, 2) have your charts out where you can use them when enjoying Maine’s beautiful mid-coast waters, and 3) learn about navigation aids (they’re on the charts and on the water) so you can use them to cruise safely. You can do all three things by taking this class. It is an introduction to navigation using a chart of the Boothbay area. 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 (e.g., buoys, lights, water depth) and to use them while cruising the area. True and magnetic headings, variation, lines of position, chart symbols, piloting, latitude and longitude, and dead reckoning are explained. The Three Rivers chart (#13293) is included. Please bring a pencil and a good eraser to the first class. A parallel ruler and dividers are needed in the first class. If you do not have either charting tool,each can be purchased separately.

Date and time: August 7, 9. 14, and 16 from 5:30 to 7:30 each night.

Cost: $80 per student.