Do I need prior sailing experience for the ASA 118 course?

Yes, basic boat handling skills are recommended to fully benefit from the ASA 118 Docking Endorsement.

What kind of certification will I receive after completing the course?

You will earn the ASA 118 Docking Endorsement, which verifies your skill in boat docking techniques.

Is the course suitable for all boat sizes?

The course focuses on typical recreational sailboats; instructors will tailor training to the boats available.

How many students are in each class?

Classes maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio to provide personalized instruction and support.

What happens if the weather is bad on the scheduled day?

In case of unsafe weather, the course will be rescheduled or moved indoors for theory lessons.

Can I retake the course if I want to improve?

Yes, repeat courses are welcome to reinforce skills and build additional confidence.

Master Docking Skills with ASA 118 in Gainesville, GA

The ASA 118: Docking Endorsement course by SunRise Sail offers an exceptional one-day learning experience in Gainesville, Georgia, focused entirely on perfecting boat docking techniques. Designed for sailors looking to advance their seamanship, this hands-on class covers the essentials of maneuvering vessels safely and confidently into tight spaces like marinas and slips. With expert instructors guiding small groups, each participant benefits from personalized feedback and practical exercises on the water. The course balances theory with real-world practice, helping students understand the nuances of wind, current, and boat handling during docking operations. Upon completion, sailors not only gain the coveted ASA 118 certification but also increased confidence for all boat handling scenarios. Located in the scenic waters of Lake Lanier near Gainesville, this private adventure offers the perfect blend of challenge and support, ideal for anyone aiming to enhance their boating skills or prepare for more advanced sailing activities. Whether you're a weekend sailor or prepping for coastal voyages, SunRise Sail’s Docking Endorsement equips you with invaluable skills to dock safely and confidently every time.

About SunRise Sail

SunRise Sail is a coastal sailing school and watercraft rental operator offering ASA-certified courses and personal watercraft rentals. The company specializes in hands-on sailing education—from beginner keelboat lessons to advanced bareboat and catamaran endorsements—plus one-day docking clinics and coastal navigation classes.

Instructors are ASA-certified professionals who deliver small-group, high-touch instruction with a focus on safety, seamanship, and real-world boat handling. SunRise Sail runs a mix of classroom and on-water training at Gulf Shores, AL, including Waverunner rentals launched from The Beach Club resort, making it easy to combine skill-building with recreational time on the Gulf of Mexico. Students can enroll in ASA 101 Basic Keelboat, ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising, ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising, ASA 105 Basic Coastal Navigation, ASA 114 Cruising Catamaran, and the ASA 118 Docking Endorsement.

Course lengths vary from one-day docking clinics to two- and three-day intensive training, and select courses advertise a 1:3 instructor-to-student ratio for personalized coaching. Each course follows ASA curriculum standards and culminates in certification appropriate for chartering and independent cruising. SunRise Sail prioritizes vessel maintenance, instructor credentials, and low student-to-teacher ratios to promote confidence and safety. Booking options include hourly or half-hour Waverunner rentals and scheduled ASA courses. The operation's emphasis on certified curriculum, experienced instructors, and hands-on learning helps riders and sailors progress efficiently from introductory skills to confident independent cruising. SunRise Sail also offers flexible scheduling, clear pre-course guidance, and safety briefings to ensure each participant arrives prepared and confident for both training and rental experiences on the water.