ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Sailing
ASA 101 Basic Sailing: Welcome to the world of sailing!
Take your first Sailing Lesson in a safe environment. This is our first level of training, ideal for beginners and novice sailors. You do not need any experience or pre-requisite to join the ASA 101 class as we take you through the basics of sailing, sailing terminology and best practice. At the end of the three day class, you will be able to safely sail your own boat in daylight and moderate wind.
What you learn:
- Sailing terminology
- How to make a sailboat move, stop and turn
- Sail trimming – Sail adjustment
- US Coast Guard basic rules of the road
- Important marine knots
- Safety best practice
How is it taught?
- Free access to online ASA 101 preparation class
- 3 days 9 to 5pm – Sailing lessons -Tuesday to Thursday or Friday to Sunday
- Classroom time alternate with a lot of hands-on on the water
- 30’ boat with a helm
- ASA 101 Test in classroom
- Maximum 4 students per class
What will you be able to do after ASA 101:
- Sail a 25-30 feet boat during daylight, local waters, light to moderate wind
- Join ASA 103 class
- Join a Sailing Practice Session
Detailed program:
Day One: Learn to make the boat GO! (We work on stopping on day 2!)
Classroom: Introduction, Course overview, the five things you need to know… and how to make a boat go. Then out on the water sailing!
On the water: Boat Familiarization: then get out on the water and practice what you learned in the classroom.
- Wind Direction: The five sailing rules,
- Points of sail, Practice Points of Sail: Sailing commands and terminology
- Tacking and Jibing
- Finish the Sail and Put the Boat Away
Day Two – Learn to make the boat STOP! Where and when you want it to
Classroom Content:
- Review and student questions,
- What makes a boat sail,
- Knots,
- Deck safety, hypothermia, and seasickness.
On the water:
- Review each point of sail plus tacking and jibing
- Playing with the “No Sail Zone” and keeping the boat moving under control
- Stopping boat alongside a ‘man overboard’
Day Three – ASA 101 Practice and solo sail (A.K.A., “Look ma! No instructor!”)
Classroom:
- Review and student questions about the basic sailing class.
- Basic charts,
- anchoring,
- Review of tying a cleat, bowline, clove hitch, and teaching two half hitch.
- End with ASA testing and certification
Sailing Lessons On the water:
- Managing in confined area… and picking up a mooring
- Heaving to
- Picking up an actual mooring in the harbor unassisted
- Back to class for written test
- COURSE OVERVIEW -
ASA 101 - Basic Keelboat Sailing
3 Days - 9am to 5pm
30’ boat with a wheel
4 students max per instructor
Women only courses available
Starting at: $955
Package Option
Related Courses
ASA 103 Basic Cruising
30’ boat with a wheel
4 students max per instructor
Women only courses available
3 Days - 9am to 5pm
Starting at: $990
ASA 104 Intermediate Cruising
35’ or 42’ boat with a wheel
4 students max per instructor
Women only courses available
3 Days - 2 nights on board
Starting at: $1495
Bundle ASA 101, 103, 104
30’, 35’ or 42’ boat with a wheel
4 students max per instructor
15% discount included
9 Days - 2 nights on board
Starting at: $2925
TESTIMONIALS
Trusted By Sailors Like You
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What will I be able to do with ASA 101?
Upon completion, you will be able to safely sail a 30 feet boat or smaller in light and moderate wind and in daylight conditions. You will know:
- Sailing and boating terminology necessary to communicate with fellow sailors and crew
- Sail adjustment and sail trimming principles
- Fundamental of safety rules and regulations
- Basic knots
- Seamanship
Will I learn the rules of the road?
At Narragansett Sailing, we focus on fun and safety. In the classroom we will teach you the
basic rules of the road and you will practice and review them on the water.
Will I have a chance to be at the helm?
Definitely. Our school is a hands-on school. You cannot learn how to sail online or in a
classroom. You will have a chance to be at phlegm for several hours during the three-day class
What happens if the weather is bad?
Dealing with bad weather is part of the sailing experience. But no worries we will not put you on the water if it is not safe. We adapt the class to the weather conditions and we will cancel or reschedule if we cannot sail at all. Please see our cancellation policies.
What do I need to bring?
Nothing special for the classroom except your notebook and pen! For the on water, wear comfortable weather appropriate sport shoes and clothes, bring water or energy drinks, sunglasses and sunscreen. More details here.
Why a keelboat with a helm? Isn’t it too difficult for beginners?
We believe it is better to learn on boats you are likely to buy or to rent in the future and most of our students request boats with steering wheel. It gives you a chance to experience what cruising on sailboats means from day one. You are not wet, can grab a bite on board and have
more fun!
I already have sailing experience. Can I skip ASA 101 and start ASA 103 right away?
Absolutely, at Narragansett Sailing, you can challenge ASA 101 if you have enough experience. You will be asked to perform on water drills like sail trimming, tacking, jibing, man over board and mooring pick up. We will give you the written test and if you pass you will receive your ASA logbook and ASA certification. More information here.
