All of our lives, we have heard (and perhaps preached) "Safety First!" It is no different when you are getting into boating. Learn safe boating and seamanship by taking a boating safety and seamanship course offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or the U.S. Power Squadron. You'll boat with confidence and reduce your boat insurance cost, too. These classes are virtually free (with the exception of the cost of materials) and are usually convenient to your home.

 
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary
http://nws.cgaux.org/visitors/pe_visitor/index.html

 
United States Power Squadron
http://www.usps.org/d_stuff/classes.html

 
Boat-Ed.com
http://www.boat-ed.com

 
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/edu/boated