FAQ’s: ASA 106 Advanced Coastal Cruising Course

How much will the ASA Advanced Coastal Cruising course cost?

Expect to pay around $2,000 to do this over 7-10 days which is equivalent to approximately 1,785 EUROS, or UK £1,300.

What will you learn?

The course is a step into sailing larger sailing vessels in difficult conditions during the day and night. You should have completed your ASA 105 Coastal Navigation course before doing this, as well as the ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising course.

On completion, you will be able to sail a yacht of 30 - 50ft in moderate to difficult conditions. This means you can sail a multi night passage in strong winds and big seas.

What are your limitations after passing the course?

Don’t go planning a trip from New York to LA via Cape Horn! This will boost your confidence and competence in sailing a larger cruising yacht of up to 50ft in coastal waters and on inland waterways. 

Is the ASA Coastal Cruising course theory, practical or both?

You will have covered a large part of the theory of coastal navigation in the Coastal Navigation course (ASA 105) but even though you will be doing a lot of practical skills, prepare to learn about a lot of stuff that won’t be covered in practice on the course.

If you do the course in summer on the Mediterranean you won’t necessarily get the experience of a Force 7 gale as you may off New England in spring. As such it teaches a lot of theory that you may have to carry out in practice in the future.

Where can you take the ASA 106 course?

You can take the course anywhere that has the accreditation to offer it. Though you will be able to learn to sail right across the US, there are centres in the Caribbean and Mediterranean too.

Can you take it in another country?

Yes, though it will not give you international accreditation.

What prerequisites are required?

You should have the ASA 105 Coastal Navigation certification as well as the ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising certificate.

Duration - How long does it take?

It takes 7-10 days. Have a look around The Boating Hub website for more information on what sail schools offer this course.

What does the course involve?

A full description of the requirements of the course is available on the American Sailing Association website here.

Essentially it teaches you how to sail in all weather conditions, and be able to tackle any issues as they arise. You will also cover engine and hull maintenance, as well as pilotage and navigation. Finally, you will look at safety at sea.

How do you progress after passing the course?

Consider doing the ASA 107 Celestial Navigation course. This will enable you to take the next step toward oceanic cruising.

Where can you learn more about the ASA 106 Advanced Coastal Navigation course?

Have a look at the ASA website for more information as to what it involves, and around our website to find a participating school near you.