The Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol Division has 16 dedicated officers. They enforce watercraft laws across Van Buren County, which includes 113 lakes—78 of them publicly accessible. Our jurisdiction also covers a stretch of Lake Michigan between Allegan and Berrien Counties.
Patrol Vehicles
We have two boats in the South Haven area: a 21-foot boat for the Black River and a 28-foot boat for Lake Michigan. Additionally, we use 15-foot and 17-foot boats for other county lakes. An unmarked boat and loaner personal watercraft are available when needed.
Boater Safety Classes
Ahoy Boaters! Join us for a safe voyage!
We’re excited to offer our Boater Safety Class, where you’ll learn essential skills for safe and enjoyable boating.
- Knowledge is Key: Understand navigation rules, buoy systems, and right-of-way regulations.
- Safety First: Learn about life jacket usage, emergency procedures, and distress signals.
- Community Connection: Meet fellow boaters and build a supportive network.
- Legal Know-How: Stay informed about boating laws and responsible practices.
- Certification: Earn your boater safety certificate upon completion.
Class Details:
- Saturday May 30th 2026
- 9am – 5pm
- Porter Township Hall
- 88040 M-40, Lawton, MI 49065
This class will cover the many aspects of boater safety. Although it is scheduled for 8 hours, it may end earlier depending on the progress of the participants. There will be a lunch break, so please bring a lunch if you plan to eat.
This class is open to a wide range of ages. Parents should keep in mind that participants need an appropriate level of understanding to comprehend the material and complete a 60-question multiple-choice exam.
Registration: Register here. Each participant must register with their own email address. Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today!
If you have questions, contact the VBC Marine Patrol by email.
We look forward to seeing you there!
