The American Boating Club – Lake Hartwell Power Squadron is a community of boating enthusiasts dedicated to promoting safe, confident, and enjoyable experiences on the water. Formerly known as the Greenville Power Squadron, the Lake Hartwell Sail & Power Squadron (LHS&PS) is a unit of United States Power Squadrons® (USPS®). USPS® was organized in 1914 as a non profit, educational organization with the goal of making boating safer and more enjoyable by teaching a variety of safe boating courses. Our members continue their boating education through a series of courses in seamanship, navigation, and related nautical subjects. We also gather together for fellowship with other boating families at planned social events throughout the year. On-the-water activities include cruises, raft-outs, and predicted log contests. On shore activities include meetings with marine oriented programs, parties, picnics and field trips. Both the educational and social events are rewarding and enjoyable experiences. Our certified instructors conduct public boating safety courses on a regular basis to boaters in our communities. Successful completion of the public boating safety course meets the educational requirements for boat operation in South Carolina and is a requirement for squadron membership. Our members also assist the Corps of Engineers and the Coast Guard Auxiliary to maintain accurate charts by reporting chart corrections, and offers free vessel safety inspections to the public. Our major fund-raising event is the annual Hartwell-Gold Poker Run where proceeds go to benefit charitable organizations such as the Meals on Wheels. Membership in the LHSPS is open to those 16 years and over who have passed the USPS Boating Course or Boat Smart examination and who are willing to contribute their time to the objectives of our organization. As a LHSPS member you and your family can enroll in a variety of boating courses which are only available to its members. You may also save money on marine insurance from companies who give discounts for completing advanced boating courses. More importantly, you will enjoy the company of other knowledgeable boaters who are familiar with the local waters.
