ASA 106 Advanced Coastal Cruising in San Diego, CA
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–8 hours per session
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness with good endurance for extended periods on deck and the ability to move safely around the boat.
Overview
Take your sailing skills to the next level with the ASA 106 Advanced Coastal Cruising course in San Diego. Learn expert coastal navigation and boat handling with top instructors on the Pacific coast.
ASA 106 Advanced Coastal Cruising
ASA 106
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About This Adventure
To get ready for the upcoming advanced sailing lessons, participants are required to complete reading and homework assignments from the Annapolis Book of Seamanship.
The Advanced Coastal Cruising course spans four days and involves overnight stays on a 39′ or larger yacht, with three to five students and one instructor. Approximately 95% of the class time will be spent on the water. The primary aim of this course is to refine the skills of experienced sailors in both skippering and navigation.
Before the trip, the instructor will delegate provisioning responsibilities for all meals to the students. On the first day by noon, the group will set sail for Catalina, CA, proceeding to the next anchorage. Throughout the four-day journey, participants will engage in on-the-water instruction, share meals, and enjoy camaraderie with fellow sailors.
The reading material and homework mentioned earlier serve as valuable preparation for the written exam. Practical exams will be conducted during the sailing expedition and upon the return to San Diego.
Adventure Tips
Check Weather Before Heading Out
San Diego’s coastal weather can change quickly; always confirm marine forecasts prior to sailing.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Use boat-appropriate shoes to ensure good grip and safety on a wet deck.
Bring a Waterproof Bag
Keep electronics and valuables dry by storing them in a waterproof container.
Understand Local Tides and Currents
Tidal changes impact sailing conditions; learning to read them improves navigation safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- California sea lions often sunbathe on nearby docks and rocks
- Dolphins frequently swim alongside boats in the open ocean
History
San Diego’s coastal waters have been navigated for centuries, originally by the Kumeyaay people and later by Spanish explorers in the 16th century.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on protecting marine habitats like kelp forests and minimizing pollution to sustain San Diego’s vibrant coastal ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Diego
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Provides essential safety support when on the water.
UV Protection Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from glare and strong sunlight during sailing.
summer specific
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and warm during unexpected coastal fog or light rain.
spring specific
Non-Slip Boat Shoes
Ensures safety and grip on wet, slippery surfaces aboard the boat.