KIHEI – The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering an introductory two-day About Boating Safely (ABS) course on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 11-12. Hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (with 7:30 a.m. registration) on Saturday, and 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday.

Classes will be held at the NOAA/Whale Sanctuary building at 726 S. Kihei Road.

This is an introductory course that includes general information about choosing and maintaining a boat, operating a boat or PWC safely, navigation rules and aids to navigation, handling boating emergencies and much more.

Completion of both Saturday and Sunday (covering both the ABS course and the new state-specific laws and regulations) are required for a boat operator license.

The cost of the class is $40, payable the first day by cash or check. Books are provided by the state. Boat insurance may be discounted with completion of this course; check with your carrier.

The instructors are all trained by the Coast Guard Auxiliary and volunteer their time in order to promote safe boating.

This course fulfills the Hawaii requirements for the licensing of boat operators. Upon completion of this course, attendees will receive a card with a state Department of Land & Natural Resources endorsement – proof of completion of the boat operator education requirements.?

Pre-registration for this class is recommended. To register for the class online, go to www.mauiboatclass.com. For more information, e-mail Denise Ankrum at mauiboatclass@gmail.com or call her at (808) 986-0023, extension 9.