Safe Boating Courses Now Available in the Hudson Valley

All boaters planning to hit the water in New York this summer are required to have a boating safety certificate. Here's where courses are being offered in the Hudson Valley this year!

Earlier this year, we learned that a new boat law went into effect, which will now require all recreational boaters, including personal watercraft operators, to have a boating safety certificate. The new law covers all motorized boaters regardless of the age of the vessel and is now a requirement to ensure all New York waterways remain safe.

New York Safe Boating Courses Now Available in the Hudson Valley

Dutchess County Sheriff Kirk Imperati recently announced that the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) Marine Patrol Deputies will be instructing New York State Safe Boating Courses this year to not only educate boaters but to ensure that all boaters operate their vessels safely and are in compliance with Brianna's Law.

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People operating non-motorized boats such as kayaks and canoes are not required to have a boating safety certificate this year.

What is Brianna's Law?

In 2005, Brianna Lieneck, an 11-year-old girl from Long Island, NY, was tragically killed in a boating accident, and in 2020, Brianna’s Law was adopted in New York. The law now requires all persons who operate a motorized vessel to complete the New York State Safe Boating Course. If any person fails to comply with Brianna’s Law could result in a fine between $100 and $250.

Where to Take the New York Safe Boating Course?

The DCSO Marine Unit will offer the mandatory course this year at the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office Law Enforcement Center Community Room located at 108 Parker Ave in the City of Poughkeepsie, NY on Saturday, May 17th, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attendees must be at least 10 years old to participate and must attend all 8 hours of the course for successful completion.

The course is being offered at no cost, but there is a $10.00 fee for a permanent boating safety certificate, payable to New York State Parks, when you request your permanent certificate. Get more information and register online here.