ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 days

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good health, able to move confidently on a moving boat, and comfortable with physical tasks like handling lines and maneuvering sails.

Overview

Gain hands-on sailing skills during a three-day ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising course aboard a Hunter 30T with Sail Monterey. Learn coastal navigation, anchoring, and sail trim in Monterey Bay’s dynamic waters.

Catamaran

Monterey, California

ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising

Up to 4 Students | Classes never canceled for low signups!

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Sep 25

Travelers

2

Adventure Photos

About This Adventure

Embark on a three-day adventure in coastal cruising aboard a 30 ft Hunter 30T. This hands-on course covers essential skills like navigation, anchoring, and sail trim, culminating in a certification. Experience practical lessons and tests that ensure you gain confidence and competence on the water, making it a memorable learning journey.

#Students MUST complete ASA 101 or get special permission from a Sail Monterey Instructor BEFORE enrolling in this class

Up to 4 Students

##Duration

3 Days

##About

Three day course designed to introduce students to the basics of coastal cruising. This class takes place on a 30 ft hunter 30T where you will learn and test on the following:

Basic navigation and chart reading
Anchoring
Parts of a sailboat
Sail trim
Proper use of an inboard diesel engine
AC and DC systems
Maneuvers: tacking, jibing, heaving to, reefing, man overboard

Day 1 and 2 – Practice and lectures

Day 3 - Additional intsrtuction, written test, skills test, and certification awards

Adventure Tips

Arrive Prepared for Hands-On Learning

Wear non-marking deck shoes and comfortable clothing suitable for active, wet conditions onboard.

Practice Weather Awareness

Check forecasts in advance; Monterey’s coastal winds can shift quickly and impact sailing conditions.

Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen to protect yourself during long hours on the water.

Be Ready for Physical Activity

Sailing demands balance and agility—expect to move around the boat often during drills and maneuvers.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Sea otters often float close to boats during lessons
Harbor seals bask along coastal rocks

History

Monterey Bay has a rich maritime legacy as a former Spanish colonial port and was once a whaling hub; its waters remain central to California’s sailing culture.

Conservation

Local organizations actively promote marine life protection and sustainable boating practices to preserve the ecological health of Monterey Bay.