Do I need prior sailing experience to take the ASA 105 course?

Yes, a basic understanding of sailing is recommended to maximize your learning during coastal navigation training.

How is the course schedule structured?

The 16-hour course is typically divided into multiple sessions, allowing flexible attendance to suit your availability.

What weather conditions can I expect during the course?

Seattle weather varies by season, including rain and fog. The course includes navigation techniques for these common local conditions.

Is the course suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely. Small group sizes and supportive instructors make it an excellent choice for solo adventurers.

What safety measures are in place during practical sessions?

Certified instructors ensure all safety protocols are strictly followed, including life jacket use and emergency preparedness.

Can I use my own boat for portions of the course?

The course primarily uses boats provided by the Seattle Sailing Club, but inquire about options if you wish to bring your own.

Master Coastal Navigation in Seattle with ASA 105 Course

Join the Seattle Sailing Club for the ASA 105 Coastal Navigation course, a comprehensive 16-hour adventure designed to elevate your boating confidence on the breathtaking waters of Puget Sound. This immersive program focuses on essential navigation skills such as chart reading, GPS use, and safe operation in foggy conditions, helping sailors prepare for real-world cruising scenarios. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, allowing instructors to adapt lessons to your pace and skill level. Whether you're an aspiring cruising sailor or looking to sharpen your navigation expertise, the flexible schedule offers options to fit busy lifestyles. Beyond technical proficiency, you’ll gain hands-on experience that builds assurance for coastal travel, making every trip safer and more enjoyable. Located in Seattle, this course gives you a chance to explore a city known for its vibrant maritime culture and stunning scenic waterways. Prepare to boost your seamanship in one of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic settings while building lifelong skills in advanced navigation.

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.