Preface<br > The BOATING SKILLS AND SEAMANSHIP TEXT is produced by the<br >Department of Education of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. The course<br >for which it is written is recognized as the most comprehensive available today for<br >pleasure boaters. Its up-to-date subject material covers essential boating informa-<br >tion and regulations for pleasure boaters. It is professionally written for adults in<br >simple language， and liberally illustrated with pictures and diagrams.<br > The text and course are indicative of the resources of the entire Coast Guard<br >Auxiliary. Much of its contents reflects the Auxiliary s training， experience and<br >capabilities in Search and Rescue， Aids to Navigation patrols and our Courtesy<br >Marine Examinations. The latter program consists of our checking without charge，<br >at the owners request， equipment on pleasure boats for state and federal require-<br >ments plus other minimum standards.<br > Further， the value of the BOATING SKILLS AND SEAMANSHIP TEXT and<br >associated material is greatly enhanced by the assistance of the United States Coast<br >Guard.<br > The course is presented by qualified and certified Auxiliary instructors， who<br >voluntarily give their time to share， with you， their knowledge in boating skills.<br > Many insurance companies discount premiums for their boat insurance to those<br >graduating and holding certificates for this course.<br > Other public education courses are also offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary.<br >They include BASIC BOATING (3 lessons)， SAILING AND SEAMANSHIP<br >(7-12 lessons)， COASTAL PILOTING (7-12 lessons) and youth courses.<br > The Department of Education of the Auxiliary and the United States Coast<br >Guard are to be commended for their efforts in providing this service to the<br >pleasure boating public.~ ~<br > Chris G. Lagen<br > National Commodore<br > United States Coast Guard Auxiliary<br >