Navigating Toward Safety, Together
Creating safer boating experiences through education and prevention.
In Memory of Monica, For the Safety of All
The Monica Burguera Foundation was founded to honor the life of Monica, a vibrant young woman whose tragic loss in a boating accident in 2006 inspired a mission: to make our waters safer for everyone. Through education, awareness, and community events, we work to ensure that families can enjoy boating with confidence and peace of mind.
Her Story, Our Mission
Monica Burguera was just 20 years old when her life was cut short in a boating accident in Miami. Known for her radiant smile, adventurous spirit, and love for the water, Monica’s memory is the heart of our mission. Her family and friends created the Foundation to transform grief into purpose: to prevent other families from suffering the same loss, and to honor Monica by making the waters she loved safer for all.
Florida consistently ranks among the highest in boating fatalities.
Behind each life lost is a family that’s been changed forever.
Together, we can change the tide.
The Monica Burguera Foundation partners with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, community organizations, and local leaders to bring free and low-cost boating safety courses to South Florida. Our tournaments and events raise critical funds to expand education and awareness.
With every class taught and every dollar raised, we move closer to a future where lives are saved and tragedies are prevented.
Since 2013, the Monica Burguera Foundation has certified over 11,000 students through its "About Boating Safety Courses."
Thanks to our partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, anyone can access certified boating safety courses to gain the knowledge and confidence to navigate safely.
Learn the ropes from the pros. Choose the class that fits your needs and register today.
We Cast Our Lines for a Good Cause
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 16th Annual Monica Burguera Fishing Tournament on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at the Key Biscayne Yacht Club.
What an amazing, memorable day on the water!
Anglers, sponsors, volunteers, friends, and supporters came together for great fishing, friendly competition, and an important cause: helping to make South Florida’s waterways safer for everyone.
Proceeds from the annual tournament support the Monica Burguera Foundation’s mission to prevent accidents through boating safety education, outreach, and awareness.
We are grateful to everyone who participated. Thank you for helping us continue Monica’s legacy.
Congratulations to Our 2026 Winners!
Lady Angler: Jeannie EstrellaCalcutta
Winner: Meritorious
Junior Angler: Franco Estrella
Second Place: Gaston Botto
Third Place: Craig Hardie
❊ SUPPORT US
Let’s make our waters safer, together.
Your support fuels our mission to promote boating safety and prevent tragedies throughout South Florida. Every donation or in-kind gift helps us provide free and low-cost boating safety classes, host meaningful events, and spread critical awareness.
Ways to Get Involved:
