ASA 111 Asymmetrical Spinnaker Course in Seattle, WA
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate physical fitness for climbing, quick movements, and balance on deck.
Overview
Master competitive sailing with a focused two-day course on asymmetrical spinnaker handling. Learn advanced tactics and race-ready skills on Seattle’s scenic Puget Sound.
ASA 111 - Asymmetrical Spinnaker Handling Course
Starting at $435 | 12 Hours | Up to 4 Students
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Dive into the thrilling world of sailboat racing with this hands-on, 12-hour course! Over two days, you'll master essential tactics, racing rules, and advanced sail techniques, including spinnaker use. With personalized instruction in small groups, this experience promises to elevate your sailing skills and ignite your competitive spirit.
Rates
- (Non-Member) $635 per student
- (SSC Member) $515 per student
Winter Lesson Rates (November 1 - March 31)
- (Non-Member) $535 per student
- (SSC Member) $435 per student
About
Prerequisite: ASA 101 Keelboat Sailing 1 & ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising or equivalent test-out.
12 hours dockside and on-the-water hands on instruction. Learn the fundamentals of sailboat racing, including basic tactics, racing rules, sail trim, starting, and mark roundings. Learn equipment and rigging, different types of spinnakers and their function. How to pack, how to jibe, trim and douse the asymmetrical spinnaker sail.
Course Topics • Fundamentals of sailboat racing • Starts and race tactics • Use of spinnakers for racing and cruising • Advanced sail trim • How to safely round markings • Equipment and rigging • Packing, jibing, trimming, and dousing
Lesson Size: Minimum to run lesson: 3 students/lesson Maximum: 4 students/lesson
Lesson Schedule:
- This course runs 2 consecutive days, 6 hours each day. Students must be available for both days of the lesson to attend.
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
Wear Non-Slip Sailing Shoes
Proper footwear ensures safety on wet and moving decks during spinnaker handling.
Stay Hydrated Onboard
Bring water bottles as the physical effort and sun exposure can dehydrate you quickly.
Arrive Early for Briefing
Being prompt allows time to review safety protocols and familiarize with the boat.
Wear Layered Clothing
Seattle weather can shift swiftly, so dress in breathable layers to stay comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals basking near docks
- Bald eagles soaring above Puget Sound
History
Seattle has a rich maritime heritage, with sailing playing a key role since the early 1900s in its development as a port city.
Conservation
The local sailing community strongly supports Puget Sound water quality programs to preserve marine ecosystems for future generations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Non-slip Sailing Shoes
Provide secure footing on wet, moving surfaces essential for safety.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against sudden wind and rain, keeping you comfortable during sessions.
fall specific
UV Protection Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water and protects eyes from sun exposure.
summer specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the demanding course.