ASA Ratings

The American Sailing Association ratings, or "standards," are designed to promote continuing education for the beginner or experienced sailor. To become certified, the individual must meet the requirements of the given standard, including both the ashore knowledge and afloat skills outlined in the ASA Cruising Log Book. This can be done by taking and passing a course at an ASA facility with certified ASA instructors or simply by "challenging" the standard by passing the written test(s) and performing the required on-the-water skills. Benefits include savings on charters and boat insurance. Contact us at (503) 281-6529 for more information.

Basic Keelboat (101): An introductory course. The individual is able to sail a small keelboat in light to moderate conditions in familiar waters.

Basic Coastal Cruising (103): The introductory cruising standard, including use of auxiliary power. The individual is able to sail an auxiliary-powered boat (about 20 to 30 feet) in moderate conditions in local waters.

Bareboat Chartering (104): A more advanced cruising standard for individuals with cruising experience. The individual can act as skipper of a 30- to 50-foot boat sailing by day in coastal waters. The standard includes knowledge of boat systems and maintenance.

Coastal Navigation (105) (shoreside): The coastal piloting standard, taught as a shoreside course. The individual understands the theory and practice of safe coastal piloting.

Advanced Coastal Cruising (106): The advanced cruising standard for the experienced sailor. The individual can cruise safely on sailboats (30 to 50 feet) in any condition in coastal waters by day or night.

Celestial Navigation (107) (shoreside): The offshore navigation standard, taught shoreside. The individual understands the theory and practice of celestial navigation.

Offshore Passagemaking (108): The highest level a sailor can attain. The individual is capable of making offshore passages on sailboats up to 50 feet in length under any conditions.

In addition to these keelboat standards, the ASA also maintains educational standards for Basic Small Boat Sailing (110), Trailerable Multihull (113), and Cruising Catamaran (114). For more information on the American Sailing Association, please visit their website at www.asa.com.