Clay County has more than 11,000 registered vessels, and the CCSO strives to protect our boaters on our waterways.
The Marine Unit includes one full-time deputy and one part-time deputy who cover the 35 square miles of waterways that are destinations for boaters from around the region.
These deputies work diligently with neighboring agencies including Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), United States Coast Guard (USCG), U. S. Homeland Security and the Green Cove Springs Police Department. The sheriff’s office also maintains a great working relationship with the USCG Auxiliary Flotilla 14-8.
For more information on boating safety or marine complaints, contact Deputy Bill Maher at (904) 591-4621
Boater Safety
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office works with the USCG Auxiliary to conduct free, monthly boating safety classes. The classes are held monthly at USCG Auxiliary Headquarters.
In conjunction with the class, you can arrange to have your vessel receive a complimentary Vessel Safety Check through the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and upon passing, receive a 2022 Vessel Safety Check sticker.
Interested in taking a boating safety course? You can view the dates to the right and other details below. Whether you are a new boater or wish to refresh your knowledge, this is a great class for you. Upon successful completion of the class you will receive a Florida Boating Safety Education card which is good for life.
If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you are required by law to have the Florida Boating Safety Education card in order to operate a boat alone.
Seating is limited and reservations are required. For more information, email boatsafeclay@gmail.com. Please add class inquiry/sign-up in the subject line.
2023 Classes
February 18, 2023
March 18, 2023
April 15, 2023
May 20, 2023
June 17, 2023
July 15, 2023
August 19, 2023
September 16, 2023
October 21, 2023
November 18, 2023
Boater Safety Class Details
TIMES: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00/4:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Classroom building opposite Reynolds Park Yacht Center located at 1063 Bulkhead Road, Green Cove Springs. This location is at the river, at the extreme west end of the Reynolds Park Complex. The entry road to that area of Reynolds Park is Slow Tide Road from Hwy 16E.
AGES: Participants under the age of 13 have to be accompanied by an adult, but that may be waived with prior approval.
CURRICULUM: “How to Boat Smart – Florida Boating Safety Course”
WHAT TO BRING: Food – A 1-hour lunch break will be given around 11:30 – 12:00 for lunch. Students can bring lunch and eat at the classroom or can leave for lunch at a local eatery. There are several fast food and local restaurants nearby in Green Cove Springs. Snacks are available in the class.
Supplies- All class supplies are provided including a textbook, but please bring paper if you intend to take notes.
COST: There is no cost for this class. The USCG Auxiliary appreciates any donations, which will go towards class supplies.
