ORANGE BEACH, Ala. -- The Gulf Coast Boat show in Orange Beach at The Wharf is one of the largest boat shows in the entire Southeast United States. The Boats on display feature boats up to 60 feet in length and included Ski boats, fishing boats, runabouts, offshore boats, personal watercraft and many more.

With some many avid boaters in one location, the Orange Beach Flotilla of the Coast Guard Auxiliary had a booth to promote “Boating Safety” and the Auxiliary.

Members of the Auxiliary were promoting their Boating Safely Course which is a popular eight-hour course presented by experts from Team Coast Guard. It is designed for recreational boaters and PWC operators. Boating families are encouraged to take the class together. The USCG Auxiliary will give instruction on boating laws, safety equipment, boat handling and navigation. In addition, boating problems and serious boating incidents will be discussed. The course will be held at the Orange Beach Community Center (27235 Canal Road) from 7:45 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Registration for the course is required and can be made by calling John Griggs at 251-955-1443. The cost is $35 per person, which covers the textbook, instructional materials and lunch, if two family members share a book, the cost is $45. The course is open to ages 12 and above.

The class size will be limited to 30 students. A Class will be held on April 14th, but if you are unable to attend that class, additional classes will be held at the same location on, May 19, June 1 and August 11.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary is a volunteer organization whose primary mission is recreational boating safety. In addition the auxiliary assists the US Coast Guard in watch standing, safety patrols and conducts vessel safety checks.

The Orange Beach Flotilla meets on the first Wednesday of the month. For more information about the USCG Auxiliary, or to join the Auxiliary, please contact Tom Moo at 251-948-2335 or Bob Czyszon at 251-990-4710.