Founded in 1914, The USPS® is the largest private, non-profit boating organization in the world. With more than 40,000 members across the United States and Puerto Rico, the USPS has educated over 4 million boaters in the last half-century.

Chartered in 1940 The Columbus Sail and Power Squadron (CSPS) is a civic, educational and safety oriented organization dedicated to the safe and enjoyable operation of vessels on our waterways. The Columbus Squadron is one of about 450 nationwide which comprise the United States Power Squadrons® (USPS).

The Columbus Squadron is comprised of more than 200 central-Ohio and Lake Erie boaters. Our membership includes sail and power boaters, personal watercraft operators and anglers. Many others are members who do not currently own a vessel, but share our passion for the water. You'll find our members on inland lakes and reservoirs such as Griggs, O’Shaughnessy, Alum Creek, and Buckeye Lake. We also boat on more distant waterways such as the Ohio River, Lake Cumberland and the Great Lakes!

Whether your goal is to pass the Ohio Boater Education Requirement, learn about operating your first boat, or learn to cruise off shore you have found the right organization. Promoting boating safety through education is the primary goal of our squadron. Our in-depth educational courses are taught by our own certified instructors who volunteer their time and resources.

Nationally the USPS cooperates with the United States Coast Guard, Boat U.S. and the National Water Safety Congress. Other cooperative efforts include NOAA, Sea Scouts, and US Sailing. Locally we participate with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Watercraft Division, The United States Army Corps of Engineers and with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary in sponsoring a variety of public awareness activities during National Safe Boating Week in mid-May. You may notice our members at launching ramps, on television and radio, at the Delaware Dam painting of “Git R On” as we work with these fellow organizations in order to promote boating safety.

But it’s not all work and no play! Our social activities allow for making and renewing friendships with others who share our love of the water. Our summer months are filled with boating trips, cruises and vacation time that take us to familiar harbors and new ports of call. Come learn and join in the fun!