Master the Waves with ASA 101: Basic Keelboat Certification in Boston
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days, 4–6 hours per day
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness; ability to move on a boat deck and handle light physical tasks is required.
Overview
Learn to sail like a pro with the ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Certification in Boston. This three-day beginner-friendly course unlocks the skills and confidence needed to command a keelboat on Boston Harbor’s iconic waters.
ASA 101: Basic Keelboat Certification
All Ages • 3 Days • No Experience Necessary
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About This Adventure
Open up a new world of excitement and adventure!
Duration
3 Days: 9am-5pm each day Each day consists of a morning lecture, lunch break, followed by at least four hours of hands-on sailing!
Experience Level:
No experience is necessary
About
Learn to skipper a 20'-27' sloop-rigged keelboat by day, in light to moderate winds and sea conditions. Learn basic sailing terminology, parts and functions, helm commands, basic sail trim, points of sail, buoyage, seamanship and safety including basic navigation rules to avoid collisions and hazards.
This is sailing 101, no prior experience required! The goal of the course is to take a student with no prior sailing experience to a level where they feel comfortable sailing a 20 to 28 foot sailboat as skipper (sailor in charge) in favorable conditions.
This 3-day course runs from 9am to 5pm each day. We start each day in the classroom, spending about two hours of lecture where we incorporate video, whiteboard diagrams and sailboat models to explain the fundamentals of sailing and to teach skills that we will be practicing on the water. We typically break for lunch from 11:45 am to 12:30 pm and then the rest of the day is spent sailing our Colgate 26 (our 26-foot sailboat designed specifically for sailing instruction), practicing all the necessary skills and maneuvers to competently sail a keelboat of this size. This means you will be spending at minimum 4 and half hours a day sailing and practicing maneuvers!
More info
- Ratio 1:3 or less. One instructor for up to 3 students
- Vessel: Colgate 26ft monohull sailboat
- Course prices are all-inclusive: no additional charges for the ASA certification fee or textbooks
- Minimum 2 students for courses to run
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for pre-course briefing
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the first session to complete safety paperwork and meet your instructor.
Dress in layers
Boston’s waterfront can be cool and breezy even in summer; wear moisture-wicking layers and bring a windbreaker.
Waterproof footwear recommended
Non-slip, closed-toe shoes improve safety and comfort aboard the boat, especially on wet decks.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
Protect yourself from reflected sun and wind exposure during all daylight sailing sessions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals
- Ospreys
History
Boston Harbor played a key role in American Independence, notably the 1773 Boston Tea Party.
Conservation
Local organizations actively monitor harbor water quality to maintain safe recreational sailing and protect marine habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Non-slip deck shoes
Ensures safe footing on wet and slippery boat surfaces.
Windbreaker jacket
Keeps you warm and shielded from wind chill on the water.
spring specific
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and improves visibility on sunny days.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial during active days on the water.