ASA Sailing Standards
The ASA (American Sailing Association) has existed for over 25 years setting sailing standards and certifying students to those standards through their network of affiliate schools. Widely recognized throughout the sailing community, a sailing certificate earned through the ASA will set you apart as a sailor.
The following ASA sailing standards can be used as an online or
hands-on resource.
Basic Keelboat Sailing (ASA 101)
Basic Coastal Cruising (ASA 103)
Bareboat Charter (ASA 104)
Cruising Catamaran (ASA 114)
Coastal Navigation (ASA 105)
Advanced Coastal Cruising (ASA 106)
- For online use you will not become a certified sailor but you will gain an understanding of what is involved. Go through the 'knowledge' section of each lesson being careful to understand each item. The ASA written tests are based on this knowledge. All sailing terms in each 'knowledge' section are defined in the Glossary. You will also find much is covered in detail throughout this website; from Points of Sail to Sailing Knots along with a wealth of information in the Navigation and Anchoring sections. It will also be very helpful to obtain a copy of the required reading for each lesson. The books will provide invaluable illustrations for you to follow.
- For hands-on use you can print out each lesson and go over it before taking the sailing class. All required knowledge is included here. You will become familiar with both the knowledge and the sailing skills you will be learning when you get to your hands-on sailing class. This will provide you with a comprehensive background. There is also a wealth of information throughout this website. Take your time, sailing is a big subject.
- hands-on resources include our Private Sailing School as well as marina based schools; please see the Sailing Schools page. All hands-on sailing lessons include ASA certification and are taught by experienced instructors who are licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard (Captain's license).