More boaters are heading out onto the water, prompting a local group to hold an event teaching the various skills required to remain safe. (Dreamstime)

By Nathan Maley

Safe Boating

Summer boat safety event in Nanoose highlighting key skills to be safe on the water

May 9, 2024 | 2:06 PM

NANOOSE BAY — Boaters looking for safety tips and lessons out on the water are in luck.

The Nanoose Power and Sail Squadron will host a free safe boating day at the Fairwinds Marina Saturday, May 11 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Chair of the event Peter Ladouceur said it’s a great time to host the event with boating season nearly in full swing.

“It is the right time of year because if you’ve been by any of the marina’s in our local waters, you’ve seen everyone kind of dusting off from the winter and launching boats and getting ready to enjoy the summer season.”

Representatives from the Coast Guard, Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, and the Royal Canadian Navy will be on site explaining their roles out on the water, as well as safety lessons for boaters.

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Information on online or in-person courses will be available, along with checking of boating equipment and a marine themed garage sale.

Ladouceur said the event is important for people to not only be able to protect themselves, but everyone else out on the water.

“If someone gets into trouble, then we all try and look out for each other particularly if it’s urgent.”

There will be lessons for all kinds of boaters, including commercial, sports, fisher, power and sailors.

Nanoose Bay Cafe will be open for food and drink to the public for anyone attending.

More information on the event can be found on their website.

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