Join a two-day sailing course at Elliott Bay Marina designed for beginners to gain key sailing skills and earn ASA certification. Perfect for anyone ready to set sail in Seattle’s stunning waters!
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 days (approx. 12 hours total)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness is recommended to handle standing, adjusting sails, and moving on a moving boat with balance.
Wildlife
History
Elliott Bay has been a central maritime hub since Seattle’s early days, supporting trade and local fishing communities.
Conservation
Efforts in Elliott Bay focus on protecting marine habitats by promoting responsible boating and reducing pollution.
Northwest Sailing
Join a two-day sailing course at Elliott Bay Marina designed for beginners to gain key sailing skills and earn ASA certification. Perfect for anyone ready to set sail in Seattle’s stunning waters!
Northwest Sailing is a Seattle-based sailing school offering a range of hands-on courses and certifications operating from Elliott Bay Marina and Carillon Point/ Downtown Kirkland. The school provides entry-level and advanced courses including Sailing Basics (ASA101) in Seattle and Kirkland, ASA101 review sessions, Cruising Skipper (ASA103), Bareboat Skipper (ASA104), PowerBoating AB101, Spinnaker Handling, and a multi-evening Coastal Navigation (105) series.
Courses combine on-water training aboard keelboats and performance sailboats with classroom-style navigation and safety instruction. Locations used for training include Elliott Bay Marina in Seattle and Carillon Point Marina in Kirkland, with some classes meeting in Downtown Kirkland. Several offerings specifically prepare students for ASA certifications and log required hours toward ASA credentials. The Bareboat Skipper (ASA104) course runs as a three-day program with a maximum of three students and private cabins on a 30′–45′ sloop-rigged boat.
Northwest Sailing emphasizes practical seamanship skills such as sail trim, knots, docking, boat handling, navigation, and emergency procedures. The school also offers a focused eight-hour Spinnaker Handling course on a J/80 performance sailboat and a five-evening Coastal Navigation (105) series covering chart reading, position fixing, and tides.
Featured on The Adventure Collective, Northwest Sailing lists clear course descriptions, locations, and certification pathways. Prospective students can choose courses by skill level — from beginner ASA101 to advanced ASA104 and specialized topics like powerboating and spinnaker work. Schedules and booking are available through The Adventure Collective listing and direct course pages online today.
Tours Offered
8 courses
Range from beginner to advanced certifications
Training Locations
Seattle & Kirkland
Elliott Bay and Carillon Point marinas
Certification Courses
ASA & AB
ASA101–104 and AB101 pathways
Bareboat Class Size
Max 3 (ASA104)
Personalized instruction on Bareboat Skipper
Choose an ASA or AB course at Elliott Bay Marina or Carillon Point and book through The Adventure Collective to reserve a spot.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
To maintain balance onboard, choose shoes with good grip and avoid flip-flops or slippery soles.
Bring Sunglasses and Sun Protection
Reflection from the water intensifies UV exposure, so pack sunglasses and waterproof sunscreen.
Stay Hydrated on the Water
Even on cooler days, sailing can be physically demanding—carry a refillable water bottle.
Listen Closely to Instructors
Active listening ensures you grasp sailing maneuvers and safety protocols for a smooth experience.
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and warm against damp Seattle winds and occasional rain.
fall
Sailing Gloves
Protects your hands from rope burns and improves grip in varying conditions.
spring
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare from the water and protects your eyes during bright days.
summer
Non-Slip Deck Shoes
Essential for safety and comfort while moving around the boat.