FAQs

Make sure your clothing is comfortable, anything loose fitting or stretchy will allow you to move around on the boat freely and provide a good range of motion.

Next, think LAYERS. Everyone has a different threshold for getting too hot or cold. On a warm day, T-shirts and shorts are acceptable, while some prefer longer shirts and pants. If you come in layers of clothing, you can easily put more clothes on or take some off as the temperature and activity dictate.

SHOES: Ensure your shoes are light-soled and non-marking, so you do not mark the decks of the boat. Anything that protects your toes and is slip resistant best. Most tennis shoes work well.

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.

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.

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.

On full day courses, we will take a short lunch break. You may bring a packed lunch or eat at one of the local restaurants. Those who bring lunch may eat aboard the boat or on marina grounds and those who would like to eat out may eat at the waterfront restaurant. For shorter sails, you are welcome to pack a snack to bring aboard.

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

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

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.