Question 1

I have some sailing experience; do I need to take ‘Sailing Basics’ before ‘ASA 101’?

Accepted Answer

Have you trained on a sailboat with wheel steering, inboard engine, roller furling and know proper sheet winch techniques? All these skills are learned in our Sailing Basics course. These “big boat” skills are not covered in dinghy and small boat sailing courses. The Sailing Academy is unique in that we train on sailboats in the 26-30’ range with these features, and a working knowledge of such vessels is important prior to progressing to ASA 101.

Please keep in mind, we only certify students who can perform all the required sailing skills confidently by the end of ASA 101. Since we do not automatically pass students, we recommend that beginners, or those new to larger keelboats start with Sailing Basics.

Question 2

What’s the weather policy?

Accepted Answer

A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor! Unless conditions are extreme (ie: named storms), we do not reschedule courses. Our captains structure the schedule around the best forecasted conditions. Check the forecast and come prepared with appropriate gear.

Question 3

What is provided by The Sailing Academy?

Accepted Answer

All scheduled classes include study materials, tests, life vests, classroom instruction, premium boats, top-notch instructors, and ASA certification fees.

Question 4

I'm coming from out of town, where should I stay?

Accepted Answer

Contact our office about liveaboard options or stay at a local inn for a discounted rate. Places nearby include:

Question 5

What's the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Cancellations up to 7 days prior to your course can be rescheduled or refunded. Past this point, there are no refunds. If contacted within 7 days of your course, we will reschedule for a $100 fee.  Cancellations or no-shows on the day of your course will not be rescheduled.

Question 6

What should I wear for my sailing course?

Accepted Answer

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Think layers! T-shirts and shorts are great for warm days, but bring longer shirts and pants just in case. Light-soled, non-marking shoes are a must to protect the boat's deck. Most tennis shoes work well!

Question 7

What Should I Bring?

Accepted Answer

A water bottle is essential. Optional gear you may want to bring: Sunscreen lotion, sunglasses, a hat with a clip so when the wind blows it off your head you won’t lose it, and if you have your own life vest, feel free to bring that too.
If you received your books before the course, please bring the entire packet.
Please consider bringing cash to tip your captain if you enjoy the course.

Question 8

What's the lunch plan during the courses?

Accepted Answer

For full-day courses, we take a short lunch break. Feel free to bring a packed lunch or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants. You can eat aboard the boat or on marina grounds. For shorter sails, packing a snack is a great idea!

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