Together, the organizations aim to equip teenagers and young adults with critical boating safety skills, while fostering a deep appreciation and respect for our marine ecosystems.
Juno Beach, Fla. (January 30, 2026) – Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) and the Perry J. Cohen Foundation have partnered to develop the Perry J. Cohen Boating Safety & Ocean Stewardship Course, a free educational program designed for teens and young adults. This series of two-day courses will be offered throughout the year at Loggerhead Marinelife Center and Chapman School of Seamanship, with the inaugural class scheduled in March 2026.
“Collaborating with Loggerhead Marinelife Center allows us to continue honoring Perry’s legacy in a meaningful and lasting way,” said Pamela Cohen, founder of the Perry J. Cohen Foundation and Perry’s mother. “By educating young people on boating safety and ocean stewardship, we are honoring Perry’s memory while helping protect lives and the waters he loved.”
The course begins with an introduction to boating fundamentals and maritime laws, followed by instruction on safety equipment, vessel operations, navigation, and more. Following classroom instruction, participants will apply their skills on the water at the Chapman School of Seamanship. Upon completion, participants will meet the requirements to obtain a Boating Safety Education Identification Card, which is required to operate all powerboats in Florida.
“We are incredibly grateful and thrilled for this partnership with the Perry J. Cohen Foundation,” said Hannah Campbell, Vice President of Education at Loggerhead Marinelife Center. “This course will transform the next generation of boaters into confident, capable navigators and fierce, informed protectors of sea turtles.”
LMC conservation specialists will teach participants about animal behavior and how to avoid harmful interactions with marine life while boating. Participants will also learn how to respond to common on-water emergencies, such as spotting injured wildlife, and enjoy an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look inside LMC’s Sea Turtle Hospital.
The course is offered at no cost to participants thanks to the support of the Perry J. Cohen Foundation, and enhanced through our partnership with Chapman School of Seamanship.
Participants must be at least 14 years old. To learn more about the boating safety and ocean stewardship course, please visit the course website.