
Learn to Sail Fundamentals
ASA 103 Course
ASA 103 Coastal Cruising prepares sailors for more advanced and independent cruising aboard larger boats, learning to navigate in coastal waters, and manage a variety of onboard systems. From anchoring and docking to planning multi-day trips, ASA 103 empowers you to explore further, experience new destinations, and enjoy the freedom that comes with coastal cruising. The adventure is yours—set sail and embrace the coastal lifestyle!
CRUISING SAILBOAT TERMINOLOGY:
Solidify your understanding of common cruising sailboat terms and essential federally required safety equipment for confident operation.
SAFETY EQUIPMENT & PROCEDURES:
Learn to identify all essential safety equipment and execute critical emergency procedures, including man overboard recovery and fire prevention, for a secure voyage.
NAVIGATION & WEATHER:
Master advanced navigation rules and practical weather interpretation techniques to safely plan and execute coastal cruises.
SAIL PLAN:
Develop an understanding of optimal sail configurations and refined sail trim techniques for efficient and comfortable coastal cruising in varied conditions.
SEAMANSHIP:
Develop essential practical skills for managing your cruising vessel, including efficient line handling, proper watchkeeping procedures, and responsible onboard operations.
Imagine the thrill of feeling the wind in your sails, the gentle sway of the boat, and the vast expanse of the open water before you. ASA 101 isn’t just a course; it’s the key to unlocking a world of adventure, freedom, and connection with nature. It’s about discovering a new passion, building confidence, and joining a community of like-minded individuals who share a love for the sea. Take the helm, embrace the challenge, and let ASA 101 be your first step towards a lifetime of unforgettable sailing experiences
Course Duration
3-Days (will include some sailing after dark)
Start and Finish Times
Start at 08:30 am – 4:00 PM Each Day
Minimum Age
16 years
Course Format
On water aboard a catamaran or yacht 35′ or larger. Over 90% of time on-water, 10% on dock or classroom. This is not an overnight course, but participants can stay on the boat and use the boats cooking facilities.
Accomodation
This is not an overnight course, but participants can stay on the boat and use the boats cooking facilities.
Course Highlights |
|
|
Who Is This Course For? |
|
ASA 101 Graduates: Sailors who have successfully completed ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Sailing and are ready to advance their skills and knowledge. Aspiring Skippers: Individuals aiming to confidently skipper a 25-35 foot auxiliary-powered sailboat in familiar coastal waters during daylight hours. Coastal Cruising Enthusiasts: Those looking to gain the practical skills and theoretical understanding for multi-day cruising trips and overnight anchoring. Bareboat Charter Preparers: Sailors preparing to charter larger monohulls or catamarans independently in coastal regions. Knowledge Seekers: Anyone eager to deepen their understanding of cruising sailboat systems, advanced navigation, and essential safety procedures beyond basic sailing. |
What Are The Pre-requisites for ASA 103? |
|
|
Yearly pricing
Pricing
Nulla pretium eros nec ante interdum mattis. Donec ac bibendum urna. Fusce nec lorem non leo efficitur semper. Donec vitae dolor ultrices, pellentesque risus ac, vehicula leo.
Donec egestas mauris id mauris pharetra aliquam.
Donec egestas mauris id mauris pharetra aliquam.
Donec egestas mauris id mauris pharetra aliquam.
Donec egestas mauris id mauris pharetra aliquam.
Donec egestas mauris id mauris pharetra aliquam.
BasicDonec massa neque, accumsan dignissim enim vel, dapibus elementum enim. |
$290 |
ProDonec massa neque, accumsan dignissim enim vel, dapibus elementum enim. |
$790 |
Searching Availability...

Why choose sunshine sailing australia
With The Experience Comes Excellence.
Our school is an RYA foundational school in Australia, and has been teaching people to sail since 1995. With 29+ years of experience, and over 15K sailors trained, we know a thing or two about sailing.
Lowest Student / Instructor Ratio
We are the only RYA school in Queensland that has a 4:1 Student to Instructor ratio as standard. What does this mean for you? This means more room on the boat, no sharing beds, and more time for instruction. You are getting more training for the money than any other school.
Instructors Dual RYA/ASA Certified
Our instructors are not only experienced sailors but also hold dual certifications from both the RYA and ASA, the two largest sail training organizations in the world. You can rest assured knowing that you will be learning from highly qualified instructors.
Queensland's Premier Catamaran Sail Training
We are the leading RYA catamaran training center in Queensland, offering more RYA courses on catamaran than anyone else. If you want to buy, charter, or sail a catamaran, we are the school that will help you increase your abilities so you can maximize your adventure.
You Become Part of Our Community
We have a strong sailing community of past and current students. Many have boats that love to have crew aboard for a daily, weekend, or somethings longer trips. We love to get together and have BBQ’s, concerts, and flotillas. What an amazing community you could be a part of, you will be welcomed with open arms.
No Sharing Beds w/Strangers
We know this might be something that would be a given, but it isn’t. Most schools require students (strangers) to share a bed, often with a piece of cloth or a board between them. We do not believe you should have to pay extra to have your own bed.
What our past students have to say!
What’s Included in This Package?
- Expert instruction from ASA-certified instructors, ensuring you learn from experienced professionals.
- All necessary safety equipment to keep you secure on the water.
- A copy of the ASA 103 Textbook, a comprehensive guide to support your learning.
- Lunches, refreshments, including coffee, tea, and water.
- UPF 50+ sunscreen to protect you during your time on the water.
What’s Not Included?
- Transportation to and from the course location.
- Breakfast & Dinner, please bring your own or arrange nearby options. There is a fridge and galley to cook on-board the vessel if you do not wish to eat at the local resturaunts.
- Personal sailing clothes, such as non-slip shoes, hats, and weather-appropriate attire.