Gain confidence on the water
Hands-on, women-only boating classes from MarineMax get you behind the wheel with expert captains. Learn basic navigation, docking, and radio etiquette at Coral Ridge Yacht Club in Fort Lauderdale. Gain confidence in one day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate: you should be steady on your feet, comfortable boarding small vessels, and able to handle short periods of standing.
Wildlife
History
Fort Lauderdale evolved into a major recreational boating hub across the 20th century as marinas and charter services expanded along its waterways.
Conservation
Practice responsible anchoring and avoid disturbing seagrass beds; follow local guidelines to minimize impact on marine life.
Professional Women in Yachting
Gain confidence on the water
Professional Women in Yachting is a Fort Lauderdale-based organization that connects women across the recreational boating and yachting industries. It curates in-person events, hands-on boating courses, volunteer initiatives, and networking opportunities designed to build skills, leadership, and professional relationships within the yachting community.
Signature offerings include speed-networking nights like the Galentines event, skill-focused sessions in partnership with MarineMax through Women on Water courses, VIP cocktail gatherings at boat shows such as MIBS, and environmental volunteer projects including MIASF waterway cleanups. Events combine practical instruction from experienced captains, curated social settings for relationship-building, and tangible community impact through conservation activities.
Professional Women in Yachting partners with established industry organizations and brands to deliver safe, organized experiences. Events take place in South Florida venues and on-board vessels, offering hands-on practice and structured networking formats. Participation emphasizes accessibility—no prior experience is required for volunteer cleanups or introductory Women on Water sessions—and programs are positioned to support both recreational interest and professional development.
As an active presence in Fort Lauderdale and at major regional boat shows, the organization provides consistent, public-facing programming for women who want to learn boating skills, expand professional networks, or contribute to marine conservation. Information on schedules, partners, and event details is published through official channels and partner announcements to ensure transparency and reliable planning for attendees.
Attendees range from recreational boaters and aspiring captains to industry professionals and brand representatives, creating a multi-level network that supports career growth, mentorship, hands-on learning, and visible advancement opportunities across yachting sectors.
Location
Fort Lauderdale
Based in South Florida
Tours Offered
4
Networking, training, and volunteer events
On-water Training
Women on Water
Hands-on sessions with captains
Find a Galentines, Women on Water course, MIBS VIP Cocktail, or MIASF cleanup—register through partner listings and official announcements.
Arrive Early
Arrive 15 minutes before the start to check in, fit life jackets, and meet the captain.
Bring Non-Marking Shoes
Wear closed-toe, non-marking footwear for safe movement on deck and docks.
Sun & Water Protection
Use sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat—glare from the water is strong even on overcast days.
Hydrate & Light Snacks
Pack a water bottle and light snacks to stay energized through classroom and on-water sessions.
Non-marking deck shoes
Protects the boat’s finish and gives traction on wet surfaces.
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and helps you read the water and markers.
Sun protection (hat, SPF sunscreen)
Protects skin during prolonged exposure on deck.
summer
Small dry bag
Conservation
MIASF cleanups
Waterway and mangrove efforts
Keeps phone, keys, and small items dry while practicing on deck.