Do I need previous sailing experience to take the ASA Combo course?

No prior sailing experience is required; the course is designed to teach beginners through advanced skills progressively.

What certification will I receive upon completing the course?

You will earn ASA 101, 103, and 104 certifications, recognized internationally for bareboat chartering.

How many people are in each sailing group?

Groups are kept small, typically 3-6 participants, to ensure personalized instruction and safety.

What should I bring each day for the sailing lessons?

Bring sunscreen, water, non-slip shoes, layered clothing, a hat, and sunglasses to stay comfortable and protected.

Is the course suitable for families or children?

The course is geared towards adults and older teens with adequate physical ability and interest in sailing skills.

What happens in case of bad weather during the course?

Instructors will adjust the schedule as needed for safety and may cover theory or alternative training during inclement weather.

Six-Day ASA Sailing Course on Flathead Lake, Montana

Set sail on Flathead Lake in Big Arm, Montana, with the comprehensive ASA Combo 101+103+104 sailing course offered by Go Sail Flathead Lake. This private six-day adventure combines three essential American Sailing Association certifications, covering basic sailing techniques, coastal cruising, and bareboat chartering. You'll gain hands-on experience aboard two different sailboats, navigating the pristine waters of one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in the western United States. The courses provide in-depth instruction from expert sailors in a small group setting, ensuring personalized coaching and safety. Whether you're new to sailing or looking to advance your skills, this course enables you to earn internationally recognized sailing certifications that open doors to sailing worldwide. Enjoy Montana’s refreshing summer breezes, stunning mountain and lake vistas, and the rewarding challenge of mastering sail handling, navigation, and safety procedures. The intimate setting of Big Arm offers peace away from crowds, alongside access to some of the clearest waters and consistent winds perfect for learning. Beyond the course, explore nearby attractions, local dining, and the natural beauty surrounding Flathead Lake for a full outdoor experience. This sailing journey is perfect for adventure-seekers eager to build confident sailing skills and embrace the freedom of open water.

About Go Sail Flathead Lake

Go Sail Flathead Lake operates from Dayton, Montana, offering sailing instruction, rentals, and guided cruises on Flathead Lake. The company provides American Sailing Association (ASA) courses including ASA 101, 102, 103, 104, and 111, plus combo certification programs that prepare participants for bareboat chartering. Instruction is hands-on and delivered in small groups aboard a variety of sailboats, from Capri 22 keelboats to 30–45 foot sloop‑rigged cruisers used for bareboat training.

Options range from a three‑hour introductory sail and refresher courses to multi‑day certification combos. Short experiences such as the three‑hour “A No‑Stress Introduction to Sailing” and ASA 111 refresher focus on practical skills, knot work, and sailor terminology. Two‑day courses cover keelboat basics, racing skills, and bareboat cruising techniques, while four‑ and six‑day combo courses combine 101, 103, and 104 curriculum for broader certification.

Go Sail Flathead Lake also offers captain‑guided boat tours and sunset cruises that showcase Wild Horse Island and surrounding islands with opportunities for wildlife viewing. Experienced captains can tailor the experience for relaxation or informal instruction. Certified sailors can rent a Capri 22 bareboat for independent exploration, with options to add kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming.

All offerings emphasize safety, hands‑on learning, and navigation of Flathead Lake’s consistent winds between Wild Horse Island and Big Arm Bay. Reservations, course prerequisites, and certification details are provided for each trip. Booking information, specific boat assignments, and safety briefings are available per trip; participants should review course prerequisites and prepare for on-water instruction and practical assessments before arrival and launch.