Take a look around any Chesapeake Bay waterway and it’s no secret that boating—and boat ownership—have become especially popular during the COVID-91 pandemic. Many boaters tell us that boat traffic on regular weekends now looks like the 4th of July .
Nationwide, jetskis, bowriders, and pontoon boaters all saw notable sales increases in June 2020 compared to the same time in 2019. The Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) wants to keep all these new boaters engaged by giving them a leg up on tricky skills like launching from boat ramps and docking.
MTAM teamed up with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Boat U.S. Foundation for Safety and Clean Water to run free “Welcome to Boating” clinics in the coming weeks. CBM Bay Bulletin is a proud sponsor.
The clinics, scheduled for August 27 as well as September 1 and 3 from 3–7 p.m. at Sandy Point State Park, welcome beginners.
MTAM says, “If you find launching, retrieving and docking boats the most challenging or intimidating parts of the activity, these clinics are designed for you.”
The clinics will teach newbies and refresh the skills of one-time boaters. MTAM believes now is a great time to enter, or return to, the boating scene. “Boating is a fun family activity that can replace lost vacations and summer camps without interacting with crowds,” the association says.
The clinics themselves will also take precautions to avoid ovecrowding: 30 reservations are available for each date. Instructors will review skills in small groups (10 people maximum). There will be no more than 24 people per gathering. Social distancing and masks are required.
To reserve a space, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/welcome-to-boating-workshop-registration-116134337931
-Meg Walburn Viviano
The Link LonkAugust 15, 2020 at 08:36AM
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Md. Offers “Welcome to Boating” Confidence-Booster Classes - Chesapeake Bay Magazine
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