Master Coastal Navigation in Seattle with ASA 105 Course
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
16 hours (spread over multiple sessions)
Fitness Level
Participants should have a basic level of physical fitness to handle light boating tasks and extended time outdoors.
Overview
Enhance your coastal sailing skills with the ASA 105 Coastal Navigation course in Seattle. Gain confidence in chart reading, GPS, and fog navigation during this expert-guided 16-hour experience.
ASA 105 Coastal Navigation
Starting at $475 | 15 Hours | Up to 4 Students
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an enriching 16-hour ASA course that elevates your coastal navigation skills. With hands-on training in chart reading, GPS, and fog navigation, you'll master advanced techniques alongside a small group. Choose from flexible scheduling options to fit your lifestyle and enhance your cruising expertise in a supportive environment.
Group Lesson Rates (4 Students)
- (Non-Member) $635 per student
- (SSC Member) $475 per student
About
This 16-hour (including time for exam) ASA course offers advanced coastal navigation lessons, using a variety of tools and publications. Continuing education for advanced cruising techniques with the most direct manual available on practical navigation.
Course Topics
- Reading Charts
- Understanding Chart Symbols
- Finding USCG charting resources
- Practice using navigation tools/instruments
- Learn how to read lighted navigation aids
- Tides & Currents
- Plotting
- Dead Reckoning
- Fog Navigation
- GPS
Lesson Size: Minimum to run lesson: 3 students/lesson Maximum: 4 students/lesson
Group Lesson Schedules: Students must be available for all sessions to join the lesson.
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2-Day Lesson: 2 consecutive days, 9am - 5pm each day
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Half-day Schedule: 4 sessions, Saturday & Sunday, over two consecutive weekends.
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Evening Schedule: 4 sessions over two consecutive weeks.
Note: Tipping your instructor is not required, but is greatly appreciated if you enjoyed your lesson. A typical tip ranges from 10–20% of the course cost. For multi-day courses or those with multiple instructors, it's common to tip $20–$50 per instructor per day. All tips go directly to the instructor.
Adventure Tips
Bring waterproof navigation tools
Use waterproof charts and protect your GPS device to ensure they work reliably on the water.
Dress in layers
Seattle weather can be unpredictable; layering helps you stay comfortable during both sun and fog.
Arrive early for practical sessions
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to get settled and review course materials before hands-on practice.
Prepare for limited visibility conditions
Fog navigation is part of the course, so be mentally ready for practicing in challenging visual conditions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals often spotted near the docks
- Bald eagles soaring above the waterways
History
Seattle’s maritime history dates back to the late 19th century when it became a hub for fishing and trade, shaping the city’s nautical culture.
Conservation
Local boater education programs emphasize minimizing wake impact and respecting marine habitats to preserve Puget Sound’s delicate ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Seattle
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof sailing gloves
Protects hands during cooler, wet conditions while handling navigation tools and ropes.
fall specific
Layered waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry and comfortable during changing Seattle weather for outdoor lessons on the water.
all specific
Non-slip boat shoes
Provides secure footing aboard wet and slippery decks during practical navigation exercises.
all specific
Handheld GPS device
Helpful for practicing electronic navigation skills covered in the course.
all specific