Learn to skipper a keelboat with a private three-day Coastal Cruising ASA 103 course in Middle River, Maryland. Build hands-on experience sailing Chesapeake Bay and boost your confidence on the water.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to handle basic boat maneuvers and occasional physical tasks onboard.
Wildlife
History
Middle River has a rich maritime heritage tied to Chesapeake Bay fishing and shipbuilding traditions.
Conservation
Efforts focus on protecting Chesapeake Bay’s delicate ecosystems through pollution reduction and habitat restoration.
Starboard Sailing
Learn to skipper a keelboat with a private three-day Coastal Cruising ASA 103 course in Middle River, Maryland. Build hands-on experience sailing Chesapeake Bay and boost your confidence on the water.
Starboard Sailing operates from Annapolis, Maryland, offering a full range of ASA-certified sailing courses and instructor clinics. Using 25'–45' vessels, the program includes multi-day liveaboard courses and one-day clinics designed for both new sailors and experienced skippers seeking formal certification.
Courses include Coastal Cruising (ASA 103/104/IPC), Advanced Coastal Cruising and Navigation (ASA 105/106), Cruising Catamaran training (ASA 114), docking and boat handling (ASA 118), and a series of Instructor Qualification Clinics (ASA 203, ASA 204, ASA 214 and full Instructor Qualification Clinic). Liveaboard courses focus on practical seamanship: sail trim, emergency procedures, navigation (traditional and electronic), anchoring, and skipper decision-making in coastal conditions.
Instructor clinics equip candidates to teach on 30'–45' cruisers and 25'–35' keelboats, and include certified training materials and evaluation for qualification. The docking course is a concentrated day clinic with hands-on practice and an ASA 118 certificate. Starboard Sailing emphasizes safety, standardized ASA curriculum, experienced instructor evaluators, and clear certification outcomes that prepare students for chartering and advanced cruising.
Starboard Sailing builds credibility through ASA-aligned syllabi, structured IQCs, liveaboard experience, and practical skills training—making it a reliable choice for sailors who want measurable progress, certified credentials, and real-world coastal cruising experience.
Base Location
Annapolis, MD
Chesapeake Bay departure point
Certifications
ASA Certifications
Instructor and student courses available
Course Lengths
1–4.5 days
Short clinics and multi-day liveaboards
Tours Offered
10 courses
Beginner to advanced class range
Check available dates for ASA courses and instructor clinics—book a liveaboard or day clinic and advance sailing skills from Annapolis.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Choose boat shoes or sandals with secure grip to stay safe on wet decks.
Bring Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Protect your skin and eyes from strong sun reflection off the water.
Stay Hydrated
Keep water on board to prevent dehydration during active sailing days.
Use Sea Bands or Motion Sickness Remedies
Consider anti-nausea options if you're prone to seasickness.
Non-slip Sailing Shoes
Provides traction and safety on wet boat decks.
UV Protection Sunglasses
Reduces glare and protects your eyes from sun reflection off the water.
summer
Light Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and warm during unpredictable coastal weather.
spring
Reusable Water Bottle
Helps maintain hydration throughout active sailing sessions.