ASA 118 Docking Endorsement

Seattle, Washington

ASA 118 Docking Endorsement

Starting at $435 | Learn to Dock! | Up to 4 Students

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Date

Fri, Oct 3

Travelers

2

Adventure Photos

About This Adventure

Master the art of docking with our specialized Docking Endorsement course! Over two immersive days, you'll gain essential skills to confidently maneuver your sailboat in various conditions. Learn about boat dynamics, effective communication, and practical knot techniques, transforming docking from a stressor into a seamless experience. Join us and boost your sailing confidence!

Group Lesson Rates (4 Students)

(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 or equivalent check-out
ASA 103 is recommended, but not required

Docking is one of the most stressful aspects of sailing because you are coming within inches of a solid and unforgiving obstruction, very capable of damaging your vessel. We believe docking should be as relaxing as sailing itself, thus we offer the Docking Endorsement, to help make docking your vessel as second nature as parking your car.

Gain knowledge and skills to safely and competently dock and maneuver a sailboat under auxiliary power, both inboard and outboard engines, in a variety of conditions. This course includes knowledge of steering and propulsion theory, wind and current, single and double-rudder monohulls, catamarans, Mediterranean mooring, safety precautions, knots and line handling, fixed and floating docks. Repetitive practice will reinforce methods and increase your competence as well as your confidence with close quarter maneuvering.

Course Topics

Learn to dock confidently in various weather conditions
Boat dynamics such as pivot points, rudder friction, and throttle kick
Create a plan considering course, speed and always having a secondary plan
Appropriate line handling
Skipper and crew communication while docking
Boat tie up and docking knots
Maneuvering in tight quarters

Lesson Size: Minimum to run lesson: 3 students/lesson Maximum: 4 students/lesson

Lesson Schedule:

This course runs 2 consecutive days 10:00am - 4:00pm. Students must be available for both days of the course to join a lesson.

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

Practice Knot Tying Before the Course

Familiarize yourself with essential knots like the cleat hitch and bowline to maximize practical time on water.

Dress in Layers for Variable Weather

Seattle’s weather can change quickly, so prepare with waterproof and warm layers to stay comfortable during hands-on lessons.

Arrive Early to Understand the Boats

Give yourself extra time on day one to get acquainted with the specific sailboats used in the course and their handling characteristics.

Focus on Communication Skills

Clear commands and communication with your crew are key to successful docking—practice these during the course to build confidence.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Harbor seals lounging on nearby docks
Varied seabirds including cormorants and herons

History

Seattle’s maritime history dates back to its early days as a key port city, shaping its deep connection to sailing and boating culture.

Conservation

Seattle Sailing Club promotes sustainable boating practices to protect local marine ecosystems and reduce pollution in Puget Sound.

Master Docking Skills with ASA 118 in Seattle

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