Learn coastal cruising skills in a 3-day ASA 103 course, capped at 4 students
3 Days
Up to 4 people
Instruction, tests, certification
Build your coastal cruising skills over three days on a 30 ft Hunter 30T in Monterey. Learn core techniques through practice, lectures, and on-the-water maneuvers, then complete written and skills tests.
You must complete ASA 101 or have special permission from a Sail Monterey instructor before enrolling. You need the ASA course book "Coastal Cruising Made Easy" (free pickup from the office or purchase on your own). Tipping instructors is recommended at course completion.
Cancel at least 14 days before the first day of class to be eligible for a refund. Late or absent students get no refund and must pay full price for another class. If the instructor cancels due to unforeseen circumstances (ie. weather or maintenance), you can get a full refund or partial refund.
Yes. Complete ASA 101 before you enroll, unless you have special permission from a Sail Monterey instructor.
Class runs 10:00am–3:30pm each day. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the start time.
Yes. You need the ASA course book Coastal Cruising Made Easy. Read it before the course begins. You can pick up a copy for free from the office or purchase your own copy.
78 Old Fisherman's Wharf
Monterey Bay sailing doesn't get much better than this. Paul and his team of captains, including Tiki, Kiwi, Tanya, and Vince, have built something genuinely special here. Families, couples, and first-timers all seem to walk away raving, and the enthusiasm these captains bring is clearly contagious. Wildlife sightings, including whales, sea lions, and otters, add an extra layer of magic to what's already a beautiful setting. For those curious about learning to sail, the intro and ASA certification courses earn particularly high praise. Captain Kiwi has a real gift for teaching, breaking down technical concepts in ways that actually stick, while Tanya brings impressive organization and warmth to the longer courses. Even on breezy or less-than-ideal days, the team communicates proactively and makes the most of conditions. The one hiccup worth noting is a cancellation that happened with short notice, so if your schedule is tight, it's worth confirming closer to your departure time.
I took ASA 101 and 103 on back to back weekends. Not only did I have a great time and learn a ton, I tapped into an amazing sailing community. I went from no experience to feeling very comfortable with basic maneuvers in light winds, and gained experience and confidence in spicier conditions under the calm guidance of Captains Tanya and Tiki. And now I can tie six kinds of knots! Highly recommended them as a sailing school, and the catamaran cruises are a lovely and relaxing way to see Monterey from the water.
Liz MacDonald
June 29, 2026
I took ASA 101 and 103 on back to back weekends. Not only did I have a great time and learn a ton, I tapped into an amazing sailing community. I went from no experience to feeling very comfortable with basic maneuvers in light winds, and gained experience and confidence in spicier conditions under the calm guidance of Captains Tanya and Tiki. And now I can tie six kinds of knots! Highly recommended them as a sailing school, and the catamaran cruises are a lovely and relaxing way to see Monterey from the water.
Liz MacDonald
June 29, 2026
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