ASA 104, Bareboat Cruising
Capable of skippering a sloop-rigged, auxiliary-powered keelboat between 30 and 45 feet for a multi-day cruise in inland or coastal waters, handling moderate to heavy winds (up to 30 knots) and sea conditions. Proficient in provisioning, galley management, boat systems, engine operation, routine maintenance, advanced sail trim, coastal navigation with chart plotting and GPS, multi-anchor mooring, docking, safety and emergency procedures, weather analysis, and dinghy/tender operation.
This course will cover
Key Components of ASA 104:
​​
-
Boat Handling: Learn to skipper a sloop-rigged, auxiliary-powered sailboat of about 30 to 45 feet in length during daylight hours and nighttime in moderate to heavy wind and sea conditions.
-
Advanced Navigation: Practice advanced coastal navigation techniques, including dead reckoning, running fixes, and using electronic navigation tools like GPS.
-
Anchoring and Mooring: Develop skills for anchoring in various conditions, selecting safe anchorages, and using mooring buoys.
-
Systems Management: Understand the operation and troubleshooting of boat systems, including the engine, electrical, plumbing, and rigging.
-
Provisioning and Planning: Learn to plan and provision for extended voyages, including meal planning, water and fuel management, and safety equipment.
-
Safety: Emphasizes safety procedures, including emergency preparedness, VHF radio use, and advanced man-overboard recovery techniques.
-
Overnight Passages: Experience making overnight passages, standing watch, and navigating after dark.
After completing the ASA 104 course, students are certified to act as skipper or crew on a bareboat charter in coastal waters, handling multi-day trips with confidence. This certification is often required by charter companies for renting larger cruising sailboats.
