FAQ

What is a Power Squadron?

The United States Power Squadron (USPS) is a non-profit, fraternal organization for sail and power boating, whose purpose is to promote high standards of seamanship, navigation and safe boating for all. USPS has some 60,000 members organized in 450 squadrons and 28 districts. It is the world’s largest non-profit private boating organization and is a non-governmental and non-military group of adult men and women who have a common love and appreciation of recreational boating.

Who can become a member?

Any adult who has participated in and passed a boating course taught by a Power Squadron or a similar organization (See: Requirements for USPS Memberships for more details).

What happens when I join a squadron?

At a regular monthly membership meeting you will be introduced to the other members, asked to pledge your support to “Safe Boating Through Education”, provided with information about free courses offered to members, social activities planned, a membership roster and a name tag.

Dues and expenses

Total annual dues are approx. $55. For some courses you have to pay a small fee for materials and books. Some outings or barbeques involve a fee, typically $8-10/person. The price for a dinner for the Annual Change of Watch is normally $25/person.

What courses are offered and where are they taught?

The basic courses of Seamanship and Piloting are frequently taught twice a year to accommodate our new members. Other courses such as Advanced Piloting, Junior Navigation and Navigation are scheduled when enough members are eligible and want to participate. Marine Electronics, Cruise Planning, Weather, Sail, Instructor Qualification & Engine Maintenance are taught annually or may be self-studied. (See: Member Boating Classes for more details)

Most courses take place in the Ft. Mill Library, but also in Rock Hill, York, Lancaster and other locations within our area.

Activities and Social Agenda

We have a monthly social meeting in alternating restaurants in our area or combine it with a barbeque in a camp located on Lake Wylie. There are several boating activities during a year, some in NC & SC, some in other states. Last year we had a 3-day sailing trip in the St. Petersburg, FL area. For 2002, trips to Charleston, Lake Thurmond and Lake Wateree are planned in addition to several raft-ups on Lake Wylie (See: Activities for more details).

Publications

We have a monthly newsletter “Smoke Signal” published by our Squadron, a monthly national publication “The Ensign” and a quarterly newsletter “D/27 Bitts” from our District.

How can I help?

The USPS is a volunteer organization. The more people help, the easier it is for everyone. Members are encouraged to study one or more courses a year, but it is not a prerequisite. Family members who are not dues paying members are welcome to all meetings and social gatherings but are not eligible to take courses.

Frequently Asked Questions