Master the essential skill of docking boats safely with Starboard Sailing’s ASA 118 course in Middle River, Maryland. Gain hands-on experience and earn certification in one immersive day!
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic physical mobility to move safely on deck and perform light tasks.
Wildlife
History
Middle River has a rich maritime history tied to Maryland’s shipbuilding and bay trading heritage.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing locally to protect the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem, emphasizing sustainable boating practices.
Starboard Sailing
Master the essential skill of docking boats safely with Starboard Sailing’s ASA 118 course in Middle River, Maryland. Gain hands-on experience and earn certification in one immersive day!
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.
Arrive Early to Prepare
Plan to be on-site 15 minutes before the course start to get settled and review materials.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Choose shoes with good grip to prevent slipping on wet decks during maneuvers.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout this full-day course on the water.
Listen Closely to Instructor Advice
Following the expert’s guidance carefully ensures safer and more efficient docking.
Non-slip boat shoes
Provides traction and safety on wet boat surfaces.
Sunglasses with UV protection
Protects eyes from sun glare reflecting off the water.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry and comfortable during unexpected spring showers.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Important for staying hydrated during the full-day course.