Which Sailing Certification is Right for Me?

diagram Taking up sailing? Get ready to have the time of your life. But before you cast off into the Caribbean, you’ll want some nautical miles under your belt. ASA courses are the best way to get your sea legs and learn the basics (and advanced techniques) before chartering a yacht.

So, which sailing certification is best for you? We got you covered with everything you need to know below.

What Sailing Certification Should I Choose?

You can earn an IPC through ASA, Royal Yacht, or US Sailing. They are all reliable options. Each offers lessons and certifications that most chartering companies and local authorities recognize as legitimate proof of sailing experience. ASA is the largest organization of its kind and is widely respected around the industry, which is why we use their courses at Go Sail Virgin Islands.

Basic Vs. Advanced ASA Courses

Basic and advanced ASA courses are available for sailing enthusiasts who want to gain experience and earn an IPC. You can sign up to join other sailors or book a private yacht for your lessons.

While you don’t need to take every course in order, you should have some sailing experience and complete ASA 104 before moving on to more advanced courses.

Basic ASA Courses

You can learn the fundamentals in around a week on a private yacht with your significant other (Cruising Couples) or with your whole family. You can also book as a solo traveler and join a group of other sailors—a great way to make new friends. No matter which option you choose, the courses are designed to help you learn how to sail and develop essential skills and knowledge such as:

Tacking and jibing.
Learning to slow down using the heave-to technique.
Operating both catamarans and keelboats.
Using tools to predict the weather.
Choosing the right safety equipment onboard.
Understanding the electrical components of the boat.
Adhering to sailing best practices and SOPs.
Practicing how to anchor.
Communicating with other crew members.
Having one-on-one mentorship with trained captains.

Upon completion, all sailors are eligible to receive an IPC, which can be presented in countries requiring a certification when chartering a boat. This allows you to go bareboat cruising without hiring a captain in most parts of the world.

Advanced ASA Courses

If you’re a sailor who’s completed ASA 104, there is an advanced course package available. The advanced courses are an ideal choice if you plan to take longer sailing voyages in the future.

Over the course of 6 nights, you’ll learn advanced skills, including how to sail at night. Other benefits of the advanced course include:

Gaining more nautical hours.
Learning how to sail in challenging conditions.
Developing advanced skills like knot tying and line handling.
Docking the yacht in busy locations.
Understanding how to plan a sailing route.

Once you are finished with the advanced ASA courses, you will have more experience to add to your sailing resume for future sailboat rentals or private voyages.

Choose the Best ASA Course for You

Ready to set off on a sailing adventure? Book ASA courses that align with your skills and goals and begin sailing in the Caribbean Sea.