COURSE OVERVIEW

BEYOND THE BASICS

This online class expands on basic sailing knowledge and skills and prepares sailors for extended day sails farther away from shore on larger boats.

PREPARE FOR AN ON-THE-WATER COURSE

If you are planning on taking the ASA 103, Coastal Cruising on-the-water certification then this online class is an essential introduction to the topics covered during that in-person course. Find A Sailing School >

ONLINE COURSE OVERVIEW

This class equips sailors with the foundation of knowledge to command a small sailboat during coastal day trips. Building on the knowledge learned from ASA 101, Keelboat Sailing 1, this intermediate-level course will enhance the sailors' ability to safely skipper in a more challenging coastal environment.

The extensive curriculum covers a wide range of sailing topics, from understanding the intricacies of cruising sailboat terminology and the operational aspects of a boat's auxiliary engine to mastering docking procedures and intermediate sail trimming techniques. The online class also familiarizes you with practical navigation skills, including basic coastal navigation using charts and GPS, alongside the interpretation of weather patterns for safe sailing. Additionally, the online class instills a strong emphasis on safety, seamanship, and the ability to manage the boat's basic systems adeptly. 

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?

This online class is for intermediate-level sailors who have already completed the ASA 101, Keelboat Sailing 1 certification.

COURSE OUTLINE

Chapter 1 - The Cruising Sailboat

• A Typical Sailboat
• A Cruising Sailboat’s Cabin
• A Sailboat’s Equipment and Systems

Chapter 2 - Motoring

• Before Getting Underway
• Checking the Boat's Condition
• Understanding Boat Controls
• Pre-Departure Preparations
• Motoring A Sailboat
• Stopping with the Engine
• The Propeller
• The Three-Point Turn
• Backing Under Power
• Docking Under Power
• Motoring Etiquette

Chapter 2A - The Outboard Motor

• Outboard Basics
• Starting An Outboard
• Maneuvering With An Outboard Dinghies
  

Chapter 3 - Cruising

• Safety
• Life Jackets & Safety Equipment
• Caring for An Auxiliary Engine
• Living Quarters

Chapter 4 - Sails and Trim

• Sails and Trim
• Line Handling
• Setting Sail
• Sail Trim
• Reefing Under Way
  

Chapter 5A - Navigation Rules

• Navigation Rules
• Taking Appropriate Action
• Maneuvering and Warning Signals

Chapter 5 - Tools for Navigators

• Sailing in Reduced Visibility
• Aids to Navigation
• Nautical Charts
• Instruments & Electronic Navigation

Chapter 6 - Seamanship

• Marine Weather
• Electronic Communications
• Handling Emergencies
• Man Overboard
  

WHY LEARN TO SAIL WITH AMERICAN SAILING?

For over 40 years, American Sailing has been the leader in sailing education. The American Sailing Association provides standards for progressive sailing certification programs, including: Keelboat Sailing, Small Boat Sailing, and Multihull Sailing. In addition, ASA provides standards for a number of endorsements, which are intended to supplement the main certification series. These include Docking, Weather, Celestial, and Radar.

We give you the knowledge and experience to be confident and safe on all your sailing adventures, whether you charter a boat from a local harbor, go on an exotic sailing vacation, or even buy your own boat.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When does the course start and finish?

The course is available to start immediately. It's a completely self-paced online course, so you're free to complete the course on your schedule.

How long do I have access to the course?

Once you have purchased the course you will have unlimited access - you will be able to take the course and/or review any of the videos/content whenever you like.

Is there an exam?

You will take an exam at the conclusion of the course.

Will I obtain a seal for my ASA logbook?

You will not obtain a seal for your logbook. You will, however, be awarded a Certificate of Completion that can be presented to your local sailing school as proof that you completed American Sailing's ASA 103: Coastal Cruising - Online Prep Class.