Coastie the Safety Boat

Chincoteague VA – The United States Coast Guard is hosting an Open House on Tuesday, July 29 from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM.  The public is welcome to tour Coast Guard Station Chincoteague, visitors will see the boats used by station personnel for verifying aids to navigation and conducting search and rescue missions.  Boats stationed at Coast Guard Station Chincoteague include a 47’ Motor Life Boat (MLB) and the 24’ Special Purpose Craft-Shallow Water (24 SPC-SW).

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet both Active Duty Coast Guard personnel as well as members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. The Active Duty personnel will be providing information on marine radio operation and proper radio etiquette.  The Auxiliary member will be displaying the latest in Personal Flotation Devices and providing a knot tying demonstration. Additional Auxiliary members will provide information on Vessel Safety inspections and the Safe Boating training classes offered to local residence.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary mascot, Coastie the Safety Boat, will be attending the Open House with a variety of boating safety messages for the public, especially children.  Virginia Marine Resources Commission officers will be available to answer questions about Virginia State boating laws and fishing regulations.

The open house is a great opportunity for visitors to learn more about the valuable mission of the United States Coast and the opportunities to serve in either Active Duty or Volunteer role.

The Coast Guard Base is located at 3823 Main Street in Chincoteague, south of the bridge traffic light. Handicap parking will be available just inside the gate. General parking is available adjacent to the base at Taylor Marina and on the east side of Main Street.