Recreational Boating Instruction Standards Updated

Kayak Rescue
Photo credit: American Canoe Association

The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) in July published updated American National Standards for sailing, paddling and on-water instruction in human-propelled boating. The ABYC published an updated standard for on-water instruction in entry-level powerboat operation in December. The standards maintenance process takes place every five years to ensure standards remain current and relevant.

Two of the standards updated in July identify the entry-level skills for operating human-propelled boats and sailboats, respectively. The third identifies the core characteristics of effective on-water instruction to develop entry-level skills in power, sail, and human-propelled recreational boat operation.

The revised standards can be downloaded from the National On-Water Safety (NOWS) website.

Related Content

Recreational Boating Statistics 2021

An annual compilation of recreational boating statistics in the United States, compiled by the U.S. Coast Guard using data supplied by the U.S. states and territories. Recreational Boating Statistics 2020 was released on June 30, 2021. New reports are published in early summer using certified data from the previous year.

Read More
Emergency Boarding Ladder

3 Boating Safety Tips Just Right for Fall Boating

Annapolis, Md., Sept. 07, 2022 – Fall boating season has arrived, and with it come different types of risks that cold water and air temperatures bring. Here are three boating safety tips from the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water just right for leaf peeping season. A float plan is needed: A float […]

Read More

Boating Safety Has Improved Nationally Says Water Sports Foundation, Resulting in Fewer Incidents and Fatalities

U.S. Coast Guard reports boating safety figure improvements in 2021 despite historic growth in new boat ownership. WSF credits increased safety course enrollment.   ORLANDO, Fla., August 16, 2022 – The U.S. Coast Guard’s latest 2021 Recreational Boating Statistics Report revealed boating safety improved with a 15.4% drop in the fatality rate per 100,000 registered […]

Read More