11:00 From Dock to Destination: What Every Boater Needs to Know to Stay Safe
📍 Convention Center
Join us for an engaging and practical seminar on boating safety at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Drawing on over 40 years of boating experience, Capt. Chris Juall will cover the essential skills and knowledge every boater needs to operate safely and confidently on the water. This session will highlight recent updates to Florida boating laws, real-world examples of common mistakes and preventable mishaps, and offering valuable takeaways that can help save lives and protect property. Whether you’re a new boater or a seasoned operator, this seminar will help you stay safe, minimize mishaps, and enjoy more time on the water.

Capt. Chris Juall, The Qualified Captain

12:00 Know Your Vessel
📍Convention Center 
To know your vessel is one of the most important skills a boater can have. Discover how to properly prepare your boat before departure, conduct routine safety and equipment checks, and complete essential post-trip maintenance to extend the life of your vessel and ensure it's always ready for the water.

Speaker: Captain Robert Franks , SeaSchool

13:00 Boating to the Bahamas
📍Convention Center
Thinking about making the crossing to The Bahamas for the first time? Join our boating experts as we walk you through everything you need to know—from entry requirements and procedures to tips that make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Don’t miss this session as we exclusively reveal the official Summer 2026 Bahamas Boating Fling dates. Be the first to hear when and where these exciting group trips will take place, and learn how you can join a fun, organized rendezvous to explore The Bahamas with fellow boaters.

Richard Munroe, Bahamas Boating Department

14:00 How to Get Your Captain's License
📍Convention Center
Thinking about becoming a licensed captain? Learn the differences between recreational and commercial boating, explore the various U.S. Coast Guard captain's licenses, and discover the steps, requirements, and training needed to earn your captain's license and begin your maritime journey.

Speaker: Aimee Carmenate, SeaSchool

15:00 Women on the Water Panel Discussion
📍Convention Center
Moderated by Captain Debbie Hanson, four women who've built careers in fishing and boating share real talk, hard-won advice, and inspiration for anyone ready to feel more confident on the water.

Moderator: Deborah Hanson, Freedom Waters Foundation

17:00 Launch Your Future: Discover Massachusetts Maritime Academy 
📍Convention Center
Get ready to take the helm of your future! Join us for an engaging presentation about Massachusetts Maritime Academy, where university academics meet hands-on, real-world leadership training. Located on the picturesque Cape Cod Canal, the Academy offers high-impact degree programs in marine transportation, engineering, emergency management, international maritime business, and environmental protection. Discover how our unique learning environment meets transformation by preparing students for global leadership in high-paying, high-demand industries on land or at sea through our “Learn – Do – Lead” approach.  

What You’ll Learn:

• Academic Excellence: Explore our specialized STEM majors designed for career-readiness from day one.
• The Cadet Experience: Learn what it’s like to balance regimented-style leadership with campus life and athletics. Discover how Sea-Term cruises aboard the TS Patriot State II, experiential learning, and co-ops inspire confidence in your practical skills and give grads a competitive edge.
• Career Success: See why our graduates boast top-tier job placement rates and high starting salaries across energy, maritime, and corporate sectors.
• Next Steps: Get a step-by-step breakdown of the admissions process, financial aid options, and upcoming campus tour dates. 

Speakers: Michael Ortiz, Dean of Enrollment Management & Global Citizenship Maryann Richards, Director of Career & Professional Services 

11:00 Dock to Destination: Important Safety Gear & Information to Keep You Safe
📍Convention Center
Join us for an engaging and practical seminar on boating safety at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Drawing on over 40 years of boating experience, Capt. Chris Juall will cover the essential skills and knowledge every boater needs to operate safely and confidently on the water.This session will highlight recent updates to Florida boating laws, real-world examples of common mistakes and preventable mishaps, and offering valuable takeaways that can help save lives and protect property.Whether you’re a new boater or a seasoned operator, this seminar will help you stay safe, minimize mishaps, and enjoy more time on the water.

Speaker: Capt. Chris Juall

12:00 Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinic
📍Convention Center
Captain Don Dingman will demonstrate various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Each kid will receive a free Hook the Future/Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo. You won't want to miss this hands-on, interactive fishing clinic.

Captain Don Dingman (Hook the Future)

14:00 Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinic
📍Convention Center
Captain Don Dingman will demonstrate various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Each kid will receive a free Hook the Future/Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo. You won't want to miss this hands-on, interactive fishing clinic.

Captain Don Dingman (Hook the Future)

15:30 Boating to the Bahamas
📍Convention Center
Thinking about making the crossing to The Bahamas for the first time? Join our boating experts as we walk you through everything you need to know—from entry requirements and procedures to tips that make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Don’t miss this session as we exclusively reveal the official Summer 2026 Bahamas Boating Fling dates. Be the first to hear when and where these exciting group trips will take place, and learn how you can join a fun, organized rendezvous to explore The Bahamas with fellow boaters.

Richard Munroe, Bahamas Boating Department & Robert Brousseau, Bahamas Boating Ambassador

11:00 Beyond the Life Jacket: What Every Boating Family Needs to Know
📍Convention Center
Boating is more fun when everyone feels confident around the water. This session explores how swimming ability, life jackets, and knowing your limits all work together to help you and your family enjoy boating more safely. Parents and kids will learn how to think about their own swimming ability, what children should know before getting on a boat, and simple steps every family can take to be safer on and around the water. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just getting started, you’ll leave with practical tips you can use right away.

Speaker: Kyle Kamman - VP of Aquatics, YMCA South Florida

12:00 Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinic
📍Convention Center
Captain Don Dingman will demonstrate various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Each kid will receive a free Hook the Future/Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo. You won't want to miss this hands-on, interactive fishing clinic.

Speaker: Captain Don Dingman (Hook the Future)

14:00 Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinic
📍Convention Center
Captain Don Dingman will demonstrate various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Each kid will receive a free Hook the Future/Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo. You won't want to miss this hands-on, interactive fishing clinic.

Speaker: Captain Don Dingman (Hook the Future)