Advanced Sailing Course at SailTime Annapolis
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3–5 days per course
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition to manage boat handling and deck work in varied weather.
Overview
Step up your sailing game with SailTime Annapolis’ ASA 104 course—master keelboat handling, navigation, and maintenance on Chesapeake Bay’s dynamic waters. Gain the skills needed to confidently skipper a sloop-rigged boat in coastal conditions.
ASA 104
$1095 per student | Bareboat Cruising
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating sailing adventure as you learn to skipper a sloop-rigged keelboat in challenging coastal conditions. Gain hands-on experience in advanced sail trim, navigation, and boat maintenance, ensuring you’re well-equipped for future voyages. This immersive course promises to elevate your sailing skills to new heights.
Demonstrated ability to skipper a sloop-rigged, auxiliary powered (inboard diesel engine) keelboat of approximately 30 to 50 feet in length during an extended cruise in coastal waters in moderate to heavy winds and sea conditions.
Knowledge of provisioning, galley operations, boat systems, inboard engine operation, maintenance procedures, advanced sail trim, coastal navigation including basic chart plotting and GPS operation, mooring with multiple anchors, weather interpretation, and dinghy/tender operation.
Rates
$1195 per student
- Price includes study materials and ASA exam fees. It does not include: provisioning, any slip or mooring fees, meals ashore, or navigation tools.
Adventure Tips
Check Weather Conditions Daily
Chesapeake Bay weather can shift rapidly; monitor forecasts carefully before setting sail.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Decks become slippery; footwear with good grip improves safety while maneuvering on board.
Hydrate and Protect Against Sun
Sun exposure can be intense; bring water and high-SPF sunscreen for long hours on the water.
Familiarize with Navigation Tools
Prior knowledge of chart plotting and GPS basics speeds up learning during the course.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Ospreys nesting on channel markers
- Blue herons wading in shallow bays
History
Annapolis holds a rich naval heritage dating back to colonial America, with the U.S. Naval Academy established in 1845 here.
Conservation
The Chesapeake Bay sustains sensitive ecosystems; SailTime Annapolis promotes sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Baltimore, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Non-slip deck shoes
Provides secure footing on wet and unstable boat decks.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and rain during coastal passages.
fall specific
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water, improving visibility.
summer specific
Hat with a chin strap
Keeps sun off your face and stays secure on windy decks.
summer specific