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first mate academy

 

  • Year-Round ACADEMY  Ages 8-18 - Curriculum-Based

    • First Mate Certifications Beginner to advanced First Mate training

    • Safe Teen Boaters Course "Driver's Ed" for teen boaters

    • Captains Apprenticeship Program & Training (CAPT)

  • Seasonal Programs (1-5 days)  Ages 8-14 - Summer - Winter - Holiday

  • Homeschool Program  Ages 8-18 - Curriculum-Based - Field Trips - School Visits

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Educating "Today's Mates and Tomorrow's Captains". 

 

The mission of FIRST MATE ACADEMY is to inspire a new generation of responsible boaters, anglers and future mariners through

education, hands-on skills training and mentorship.

Our goal is to prepare students for a lifetime of success on the water as

“Today’s Mates and Tomorrow’s Captains”.

 

Mission & Goal

 

Program Location

 

Speckled Trout Marina

370 Bayshore Drive

Palm Harbor, FL 34683

(Ozona)

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* REGISTRATION *

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We are proudly partnered with

Step Up For Students, 

Palm Harbor Parks & Recreation and Speckled Trout Marina!

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Captain Andy Benedict - founder  

As a husband, father of three and USCG Captain, I  am relentlessly passionate about achieving safe, productive and fun outings on the water. Years of beach-going, boating, fishing and sharing knowledge with others has greatly shaped the lifestyle of our family. These experiences, among others, created the foundation of FIRST MATE ACADEMY - a progressive learning program steeped in family values where youth

development and education are of utmost importance.    

~Captain Andy~

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Winter Program #1

12/22/2025

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