Community Events Calendar

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GPS/Navigation for Mariners – US Coast Guard Approved Boating Safety Course

PORT CHARLOTTE, FL – March 21, 2026 – The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering a GPS/Navigation for Mariners course designed to enhance the navigational skills of local boaters. This comprehensive, one-day course will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM at the South Gulf Cove HOA Building, located at 14859 Ingraham Blvd, Port Charlotte, FL 33981.

Taught by experienced U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Instructors, this course will provide attendees with essential knowledge of traditional and modern navigational techniques. Instructors familiar with Gasparilla Sound, Pine Island Sound, Boca Grande, South Charlotte Harbor, South Gulf Cove, and surrounding waterways will guide participants through both fundamental and advanced navigation principles.

The first part of the course will focus on basic navigational skills, including:

• Reading and interpreting nautical charts • Determining location and depth • Identifying aids to navigation (ATONS) • Recognizing hazards and features helpful to navigation • Calculating compass bearings, distances, speed, and time for navigation.

The second portion will introduce modern Global Positioning Systems (GPS) as a navigational aid, covering:  

*Using GPS to determine location • Storing and using waypoints, routes, and tracks • Applying GPS for trip planning and execution.

While the course will provide a general understanding of GPS navigation, it will not be specific to any particular brand or model of equipment.

Course Logistics:                                                                                                                                                     • Check-in begins at 8:00 AM                                                                                                                                   • Complimentary coffee, bottled water, and light refreshments will be available                                                            • A one-hour lunch break will be provided (participants may bring their own meal or travel a short distance for take-out options)

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

To reserve your space, or if you have any questions, contact Wendy Breidel, Flotilla Staff Officer for Public Education, 

email  wbreidel.uscgaux@yahoo.com or Cell phone 978-891-7490 (voice or text). 

Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. If plans change and you are unable to attend, please notify the organizers.

 We are currently accepting cash or personal checks for payment at the door.

The cost for the course is $45 per person, $60 per couple, or $15 per person, for middle or high school students. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to improve your navigation skills and enhance your boating safety.

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, March 21, 2026.