Mastering the Waves: Advanced Coastal Cruising Course in New Jersey
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2–5 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; expect periods of physical activity including sail handling and balance on moving decks.
Overview
Push your sailing skills to new heights with the ASA 106: Advanced Coastal Cruising course in New Jersey. Navigate tidal waters, master night sailing, and handle unpredictable coastal conditions with confidence.
ASA 106: Advanced Coastal Cruising
4 days • All ages
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 4-day ASA 106: Advanced Coastal Cruising course, where you'll enhance your sailing skills aboard a vessel. Experience teamwork through night navigation, emergency handling, and strategic planning while cruising regional waterways. Achieve certification to confidently skipper a sailing vessel in diverse conditions, making this an unforgettable adventure.
Must be certified in ASA 101-105
Duration
4 Days
About
During the ASA 106: Advanced Coastal Cruising course, students will learn more advanced sailing skills while living aboard for several days, participating both as crew and skipper, during an extended journey on some of our regional waterways. At least one leg will last for a minimum of 24 hours, with students working together as a team, participating in watch rotation, as well as skippering and navigating at night. Other topics covered during this challenging course include weather forecasting, handling emergencies, strategic planning and resource management. After achieving certification students will be able to safely act as skipper and crew of a sailing vessel about 30 to 50 feet in length in coastal and inland waters, in any conditions.
More Information
Course fee includes: Instruction and ASA 106 certification, textbook (Annapolis Book of Seamanship) and dockage fees. Some provisioning is included.
What to bring
Please note: Students will provide: A Type V Inflatable PFD with a D ring (Tethers are also encouraged), and cash to split the costs for fuel and some additional provisioning. Each student will pay for their own restaurant meals.
Adventure Tips
Check Weather Forecasts
Coastal weather can change rapidly; always review updated forecasts before heading out.
Use Navigation Tools
Familiarize yourself with both electronic and traditional charts to improve course plotting on varied waterways.
Prepare for Currents
Understand local tides and currents of the Delaware River and nearby channels to maintain safe maneuvering.
Night Sailing Precautions
Equip appropriate lighting and review night navigation rules to safely operate after dark.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Ospreys hunting near water edges
- Harbor seals occasionally spotted during coastal passages
History
The Delaware River and surrounding waterways have long been critical maritime routes dating back to colonial trade and naval history.
Conservation
The program promotes eco-friendly sailing practices to minimize impact on sensitive estuarine habitats and maintains emphasis on Leave No Trace principles.
Select participants and date
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Sailing Jacket
Protects against unpredictable spring coastal rains and wind.
spring specific
Navigation Chart Plotter or App
Essential for advanced route planning and tracking.
Non-slip Deck Shoes
Maintain footing during wet and active sailing conditions.
summer specific
Headlamp with Red Light
Crucial for night sailing without impairing night vision.
fall specific