ASA 106, Advanced Coastal Cruising
Our program will teach you the skills and knowledge necessary to safely assume the roles of skipper and crew on sailboats ranging from 30 to 50 feet long, whether you are navigating in coastal or inland waters and no matter the weather conditions. You will learn how to navigate and operate the boat, including all necessary safety procedures, how to read and interpret weather forecasts, and how to handle emergency situations. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to practice your skills in a real-world setting, under the guidance of experienced instructors, giving you the hands-on experience you need to become a confident and capable sailor.
ASA 117, Basic Celestial Endorsement
In order to become proficient in celestial navigation, it is important to master the basic theory and practice of this technique. By doing so, you will be able to determine your ship's position at sea using a sextant and Nautical Almanac. This involves not only understanding the mechanics of celestial navigation, but also familiarizing yourself with the various stars, planets, and other celestial bodies that are used as reference points. Additionally, you will need to learn how to account for factors such as the time of day, the angle of the sun, and the curvature of the earth in order to accurately calculate your position. With practice and dedication, however, you will soon be able to confidently navigate the open seas using nothing but the stars and your own knowledge and skill.
ASA 118, Docking Endorsement
Learn to safely and efficiently dock an auxiliary powered (single inboard or outboard engine) sailboat. Knowledge of basic auxiliary power theory, engine and steering controls, proper use of dock lines, crew communication and safety.
ASA 108, Offshore Passagemaking
ASA 108 Offshore Passagemaking is an advanced course focusing on the skills necessary for safe and effective navigation across open oceans. You’ll master passage planning using tools like Great Circle plotting and rhumb lines, and learn to select the right routes for Atlantic and Pacific crossings. The course covers essential topics, including vessel and crew preparation, food provisioning, emergency procedures, and advanced navigation techniques. Practical skills include managing long watch-keeping routines, performing emergency drills, and utilizing celestial navigation for accurate positioning. By the end, you’ll be fully equipped to plan and execute offshore voyages, handling everything from routine maintenance to emergencies at sea.
It’s important to understand that simply enrolling in an ASA 108 course and attending classes doesn’t automatically guarantee certification. Our commitment is to the safety and competence of every sailor who takes to the water, which is why we’ve developed rigorous curriculum standards. These standards are designed to ensure you receive the highest quality education, equipping you with the skills and confidence you need to handle a boat safely. From sail trim to navigation, we hold you to a high standard, so when you earn your certification, you know you’re truly ready to skipper with skill and confidence. Safety isn’t just a lesson—it’s our priority, and these standards are what set you up for success on the water.
Download a PDF of the basic skills learned in this course. When you enroll in a certification course with GBA, you will be taught each of these skills. Your ability to demonstrate these skills on the water and in the written exam determines whether you receive a certification or if you need more practice before receiving the certification.
To be successful in earning the certification, we highly recommend you study all available materials so that your time in class is used efficiently and effectively.