Set sail on Flathead Lake with a beginner-friendly ASA 101 Keelboat Certification Course in Montana. Experience expert instruction and unforgettable water moments over two action-packed days.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness is sufficient; moderate mobility and balance help when moving on the boat.
Wildlife
History
Flathead Lake has been a vital resource for the Native Salish and Kootenai tribes, who have lived in the area for centuries.
Conservation
Local organizations focus on protecting Flathead Lake’s water quality and native fish species to support sustainable recreation.
Go Sail Flathead Lake
Set sail on Flathead Lake with a beginner-friendly ASA 101 Keelboat Certification Course in Montana. Experience expert instruction and unforgettable water moments over two action-packed days.
Go Sail Flathead Lake operates from Dayton, Montana, offering sailing instruction, rentals, and guided cruises on Flathead Lake. The company provides American Sailing Association (ASA) courses including ASA 101, 102, 103, 104, and 111, plus combo certification programs that prepare participants for bareboat chartering. Instruction is hands-on and delivered in small groups aboard a variety of sailboats, from Capri 22 keelboats to 30–45 foot sloop‑rigged cruisers used for bareboat training.
Options range from a three‑hour introductory sail and refresher courses to multi‑day certification combos. Short experiences such as the three‑hour “A No‑Stress Introduction to Sailing” and ASA 111 refresher focus on practical skills, knot work, and sailor terminology. Two‑day courses cover keelboat basics, racing skills, and bareboat cruising techniques, while four‑ and six‑day combo courses combine 101, 103, and 104 curriculum for broader certification.
Go Sail Flathead Lake also offers captain‑guided boat tours and sunset cruises that showcase Wild Horse Island and surrounding islands with opportunities for wildlife viewing. Experienced captains can tailor the experience for relaxation or informal instruction. Certified sailors can rent a Capri 22 bareboat for independent exploration, with options to add kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming.
All offerings emphasize safety, hands‑on learning, and navigation of Flathead Lake’s consistent winds between Wild Horse Island and Big Arm Bay. Reservations, course prerequisites, and certification details are provided for each trip. Booking information, specific boat assignments, and safety briefings are available per trip; participants should review course prerequisites and prepare for on-water instruction and practical assessments before arrival and launch.
Base Location
Dayton, MT
Launches from the Flathead Lake shore
ASA Courses
101,102,103,104,111
Keelboat and bareboat certifications
Featured Boat
Capri 22
22ft rental and keelboat training
Trip Durations
3 hours–6 days
Short sails to multi-day certification
Book multi-day certification combos, short introductions, or a captain-guided sunset cruise from Dayton, Montana — spots fill for popular dates.
Dress in Layers
Montana’s weather on the water can change quickly, so bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Bring Sunscreen and Sunglasses
The lake’s surface reflects sunlight intensely—protect your skin and eyes to avoid sunburn and glare.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Shoes with good grip help maintain stability on wet boat decks during sailing maneuvers.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to drink, especially during sunny summer days, to avoid dehydration.
Windbreaker Jacket
Protects against chilly winds and light rain during spring sailing.
spring
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water for better visibility and eye comfort.
summer
Non-slip Deck Shoes
Ensures safe footing on wet boat surfaces during maneuvers.
Water Bottle
Helps keep you hydrated in the sun and on the water.
summer