KENNEBUNK — On Monday, 17-year-old Ethan Houle received his wish through the Make-A-Wish Foundation: a new boat.

Houle lives with a form of kidney disease, a life-threatening condition, according to Make-A-Wish. He and his mother are avid boaters from Kennebunk, and his wish was to have his own boat.

Make-A-Wish, a nonprofit that fulfills requests for children battling serious illnesses, worked with Portland Yacht Services to put together a special package for Houle’s wish, including a Carolina Skiff J1450.

Houle celebrated by visiting U.S. Coast Guard Sector Northern New England in South Portland, where he ate his favorite meal with the crew, followed by a tour to learn about their local fleet and operations, the organization said. Afterwards, he traveled to Portland Yacht Services for the presentation of his boat, while surrounded by family, friends and the Portland Yacht Services staff.

As part of the wish, Houle was required to take a state-certified boater safety course, and said he hopes to pursue a captain’s license as well. Part of the reason Make-A-Wish chose Houle to receive a wish was because of his desire to give back to others, and teach other children the joy of being on the ocean and fishing, the organization stated.