Auto, Boats & Planes

Modern engines offer high reliability and good performance through the use of computerized systems for fuel delivery and engine timing. Most of these systems are “black boxes” that can no longer be serviced by weekend mechanics with ordinary tools. The EM course covers those repairs that do-it-yourselfers can still perform, teaches how to diagnose problems that might be beyond your ability to fix, and how to share information with your mechanic so the right repairs get performed. The Engine Maintenance course also covers basic mechanical systems such as drive systems (propellers), steering systems, and engine controls. The last chapter discusses solutions you might use to problems that could occur while afloat and away from a repair facility. Gasoline, diesel, and outboard engines are treated independently in this chapter.

The new Engine Maintenance course 2011 has been put into one ten-chapter course that stresses the diagnosis of modern systems, while also teaching the basics of engine layout and operation. Gasoline inboards, outboards, and diesel engines are taught in a way that reinforces the common aspects. Ten sessions and a final examination. Instructor: Gary Bergendorf  

Covid 19 safety protocols will follow state and school district recommendations for in-person events. 

Power Squadron members call Merrymeeting Adult Ed for your discounted rate of $95.  No other discount.

Fred Bowers teaches the essentials of safe coastal and inland navigation using basic GPS in conjunction with charts and other marine data. The Marine Navigation course teaches you how to use the GPS along with traditional dead reckoning techniques for planning and laying out safe routes, as well as ensuring that you are on course while underway. What's included Charts and their interpretation, landmarks and navigation aids (buoys, daymarks, lights, etc.), plotting courses and determining direction and distance, the Mariner's compass and converting between True and Magnetic, basic GPS displays and information they provide, setting up waypoints and routes, staying on a GPS course, pre-planning courses and entering them into the GPS, monitoring progress and determining position by both GPS and traditional techniques such as bearings and dead reckoning, and the "Seaman's Eye." Ten sessions with a take-home final examination. Power Squadron members call Merrymeeting Adult Ed for your discounted rate of $95. No other discount.  

The most comprehensive in-person boating course available, America’s Boating Course, gives you the skills you need to enjoy your time on the water and boat with confidence. Our boater safety class meets most states’ certification requirements and is available in both Spanish and English. Taking a boating class reduces your risk of accidents and injuries, saves you money on boat insurance, and qualifies you for a state boat license or operator certificate in most states. Our in-person boating course includes a comprehensive introduction to boating, covering boat types, boat engines, boat selection, and more. You’ll learn about boating laws and regulations as well as boat registration and licensing. Get in-depth knowledge of boating safety equipment, and learn how to become a safe boater by learning the dos and don’ts of boater safety. Gain practical knowledge of navigation, rules of the road, handling emergencies and mechanical problems on the water, the basics of towing and trailering, important information for hunters, anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and so much more. Four sessions with a NASBLA approved examination.  Instructor: Pete Asquith

The cost for couples sharing materials is $95. Please call Merrymeeting Adult Education for your discount. No other discounts.

This class is intended for newer recreational boaters who have completed a basic boating class like America's Boating Course, and want to gain more knowledge, skill, and confidence to boat safely and have more fun in a variety of situations. Boat Handling covers Rules of the Road: A Practical Approach, Confidence in Docking and Undocking, Slow-Speed Maneuvering, Boating with Confidence: Handling Your Boat Under Way, Anchoring with Assurance, Emergencies on Board, and Knots and Line Handling. Instructors will enrich the course with local knowledge, experience, and discussion that will help you expand your boating horizons. Six sessions with a final examination. The cost for couples sharing materials is $95. Please call Merrymeeting Adult Education for your discount. No other discounts.