Do I need any prior sailing experience?

No prior experience is needed; the course is designed for beginners.

Is the ASA 101 certification recognized elsewhere?

Yes, ASA 101 is a nationally recognized certification that allows you to crew on keelboats.

What should I wear during the course?

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing with layers and non-slip shoes.

Are meals or drinks provided during the course?

No, participants should bring their own snacks and water to stay hydrated.

What is the maximum group size for the class?

Classes are kept small, often no more than 6 students, to maximize hands-on learning.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Participants must be at least 16 years old to enroll in the ASA 101 course.

Learn Keelboat Sailing in Seattle with ASA 101 Course

Discover the thrill of sailing with the ASA 101 Keelboat Sailing 1 course offered by Seattle Sailing Club. This comprehensive 15-hour course is specially designed for beginners eager to learn the fundamental skills of sailing. You'll gain hands-on experience in navigation, seamanship, and safety while working with small groups to ensure personalized instruction. The course prepares you for crewing on keelboats and sets a solid foundation for more advanced sailing certifications. Located in the picturesque waters of Seattle, Washington, this experience combines practical learning with incredible views of Puget Sound and the city skyline. Whether you’re new to sailing or looking to build confidence on the water, this course offers an engaging and supportive environment. By the end of the program, you’ll be certified and ready to join crewed sailing adventures, making it the perfect gateway to an exciting outdoor lifestyle.

About Seattle Sailing Club

Seattle Sailing Club is a community-focused sailing organization in the Puget Sound region that offers instructional courses, on-water clinics, racing programs, and social events for sailors of all levels. The club organizes American Sailing Association (ASA) courses—ranging from beginner certifications to instructor qualification programs—alongside skill-building clinics such as on‑the‑water practice sessions, racing clinics, and navigation seminars.

Specialized offerings include women’s programs, LGBTQ+ programs, Sistership Sails, and targeted clinics for spinnaker and racing techniques. The club operates structured classroom learning combined with hands-on training; for example, the ASA 103 course is a 21-hour program that blends classroom instruction with practical sailing experience. Several events and advanced classes run on waitlists when capacity is reached, giving interested sailors the opportunity to join if spaces open.

Sailfest and casual racing clinics emphasize community, inclusivity, and relaxed competition, while race clinics and skipper-level training focus on The Racing Rules of Sailing, tactics, and onboard communication. Seattle Sailing Club supports aspiring instructors through ASA-affiliated Instructor Qualification Courses and provides seminars on navigation, engine troubleshooting, and advanced sail handling. Safety, certified curriculum standards, and peer mentorship underpin the club’s offerings.

The club’s programs combine measurable training milestones, small-group instruction, and organized graduation sails to ensure clear progression for learners. Whether seeking certification, competitive racing experience, or inclusive community sails, Seattle Sailing Club provides accessible, structured, and trustworthy sailing education and social opportunities on Puget Sound. Instructors follow ASA standards, events welcome newcomers and experienced sailors, and waitlist notifications are sent when openings occur throughout the season.