Sailing Adventure at First Reef Sailing: Bareboat Cruising Experience
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical health, capable of handling deck work and outdoor activities.
Overview
Set sail on a 4-day adventure with First Reef Sailing and gain the skills and confidence for open-water cruising. Dive into expert instruction amid stunning coastal scenery and learn to navigate like a pro.
ASA 104: Bareboat Cruising
All Ages • 4 Days • Follows ASA 103 • "Live-Aboard" Course!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 4-day sailing adventure aboard a 30'-45' sloop-rigged sailboat! Experience live-aboard training as you navigate coastal waters, mastering skills like advanced sail trim and coastal navigation. With expert instruction and hands-on learning, you'll gain the confidence to plan and sail your own multi-day voyage.
Open up a new world of excitement and adventure!
Duration
4 Days: 9am Thursday - 5pm Sunday
Experience Level:
Prerequisite: ASA 101 & ASA 103
About
Learn how to sail a sloop-rigged, auxiliary powered 30'-45' sailboat during a multi-day cruise upon inland/coastal waters in moderate/heavy winds and sea conditions. Learn about provisioning, boat systems, auxiliary engines, advanced sail trim, coastal navigation, anchoring / mooring, docking, emergency operations, weather, and more.
ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising is our first “live-aboard” course where students board our training boat on Thursday morning and spend the next four days and three nights sailing up and down the coast, anchoring or mooring in a different harbor each night.
The goal of the course is to provide the skills and real world knowledge to the students so that they can safely and competently plan and sail a multi-day voyage in a cruising sailboat from 36 to 45 feet in length!
Even though we are spending the majority of the time onboard we still follow a similar format to ASA 101 and ASA 103 where we spend a couple hours each morning doing a classroom lecture followed by a long sailing session in the afternoon. We typically depart East Boston on Thursday afternoon and spend the next three days sailing between Scituate, Salem/Marblehead and the Boston Harbor islands depending on conditions. This is as real world experience as it gets!
More info
- Ratio 1:3 or less. One instructor for up to 3 students
- Live aboard the boat, overnighting while taking the 4-day course.
- Vessel: Beneteau First 36.7ft 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
Check weather forecasts regularly
Stay updated on weather conditions to ensure safety and optimal sailing conditions.
Practice sail trim skills beforehand
Familiarize yourself with sail trimming basics for smoother handling during the course.
Bring waterproof gear
Protect yourself against unexpected rain or splashes on the deck.
Book early for availability
This popular course fills up quickly—reserve your spot well in advance.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Dolphins
- Sea turtles
History
The region has a long maritime history, with many shipwrecks and historic ports contributing to its rich sailing culture.
Conservation
First Reef Sailing emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including responsible anchoring and marine life preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Miami
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during long hours on deck.
summer specific
Non-slip shoes
Ensure safe footing on wet or moving surfaces.
spring;summer;fall;winter specific
Hat and sunglasses
Shield your eyes from sun glare while sailing.
spring;summer;fall;winter specific
Personal waterproof gear
Keep yourself dry during boat handling and weather changes.
spring;summer;fall;winter specific