ASA 103 Coastal Cruising Course in Gainesville, GA
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic physical fitness, comfortable with moderate activity such as moving on a boat deck and handling sails.
Overview
Build your sailing confidence with the ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising course in Gainesville, Georgia. Learn seamanship and navigation in a hands-on, private setting designed to get you ready for coastal waters safely.
ASA 103: Basic Coastal Cruising
2 Day Course • PreReq: ASA 101
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About This Adventure
Elevate your sailing skills with the ASA 103: Basic Coastal Cruising course! Over two days, gain hands-on experience in seamanship, navigation, and boat handling in near-coastal waters. With a low instructor-to-student ratio and guaranteed certification, you'll confidently prepare for thrilling coastal adventures while ensuring safety and proficiency on the water.
Take the next step towards sailing proficiency!
Duration
- 2-Day Public Course
- 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Pre-Requisite Courses
ASA 101: Basic Keelboard Sailing
Course Description
ASA 103: Basic Coastal Cruising is a comprehensive sailing course that equips students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to confidently navigate and handle a sailboat in near-coastal waters. This intermediate-level public course builds upon the fundamentals taught in ASA 101, focusing on seamanship, boat handling, safety procedures, and navigation techniques suitable for cruising along coastlines and in moderate wind and sea conditions. Students will gain hands-on experience in sail trim, anchoring, reefing, and crew coordination, while also mastering the art of coastal navigation using charts and instruments. By the end of ASA 103, participants will be well-prepared to embark on coastal cruising adventures with competence and safety awareness, making it an ideal step towards becoming a proficient sailor.
All course materials are provided including ASA 103 book and study guide. It is recommended to review your book prior to attending class.
By the completion of the course, students will have:
- Demonstrated ability to skipper a sloop-rigged auxiliary powered (outboard or inboard engine) keelboat of approximately 25 to 35 feet length by day in moderate winds and sea conditions.
- Knowledge of cruising sailboat terminology, basic boat systems, auxiliary engine operation, docking procedures, intermediate sail trim, navigation rules, basic coastal navigation, anchoring, weather forecast interpretation, safety and seamanship.
Benefits of ASA Training from SunRise Sail
ASA CERTIFIED TRAINING
SunRise Sail is proud to be an ASA Certified Training Facility offering Learn to Sail and Advanced Sailing courses through our local US Coast Guard Licensed Captains, ASA Certified training instructors and facilities.
SAFETY-FIRST EDUCATION
When you join the American Sailing Association, or work with an ASA certified sailing school, you know you’re learning to how to sail and getting the most rigorous, safety-first education and the best sailing instruction available.
FOCUSED ON YOU
1:3 Instructor to Student Ratio ensures instruction at a pace that is right for you!
GUARANTEED CERTIFICATION
In the event a student doesn’t pass our ASA 101 course within the scheduled course completion date, we will provide additional instruction until you have passed the course and certified, at no cost to you.
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Adventure Tips
Check Weather Forecasts Regularly
Coastal weather can change quickly; always review the latest marine forecasts before heading out.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Choose shoes with good grip to maintain safety while moving on a wet deck.
Bring a Waterproof Bag
Keep essentials like phones, charts, and snacks dry during the course by using a waterproof bag.
Stay Hydrated on the Water
Bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration, especially during warmer months.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Ospreys
- Bottlenose Dolphins
History
The coastal waters around Gainesville and Lake Lanier have long been important for trade and fishing, influencing Georgia’s maritime culture.
Conservation
Efforts in this area focus on protecting estuarine habitats and promoting responsible boating practices to preserve water quality and local wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Atlanta
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Life Jacket (PFD)
A Coast Guard-approved life jacket is crucial for safety at all times on the water.
Sailing Gloves
Protects your hands while handling lines and prevents rope burns.
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Reduces glare off the water and protects your eyes during sunny days.
summer specific
Light Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and comfortable during unexpected coastal rain showers and wind.
spring specific