What is the ASA?
The American Sailing Association is an association of sailors, professional sailing instructors, sailing schools and charter companies. The American Sailing Association is dedicated to promoting safe recreational sailing in the United States by administering an internationally recognized education system.
How many students will be on the boat?
For individual classes we'll book up to three students. For liveaboard cruises we prefer no more than two students unless within one family.
Where do we go?
We take advantage of the protected water of the St. John’s River for the basic keelboat 101 and maybe the basic coastal cruising 103 (we are very flexible with regard to wind, tides, student preference, etc.)For the Advanced Coastal 104 course we spend a night or two at anchor and play in the big puddle (Atlantic Ocean).
Navigation around here is fairly interesting. If you have had no previous experience with current you will have had plenty by the end of the week
What other charges are there?
Our price is all-inclusive. Not included are any dinners or dockage fees, incurred as a result of your desire to overnight in a marina or eat at a restaurant while on shore.
What kind of food is provided?
Good food is a part of the program. We work very hard to make sure you are not disappointed.
Are accommodations provided?
Accommodations are provided on board for only the liveaboard programs. In the five day program you are provided accommodations onboard for four nights.
What is a typical day? Do we get some free time?
On our individual courses, lessons and drills run from 9am to 5pm with some adjustments made for weather and tides. Evenings are dedicated to self-study or new material presentations. On our extended programs we do most everything on the boat. Early mornings can be used for the presentation of new material or test preparation. The majority of the day is spent underway with the emphasis on sailing skills and drills. We do break for lunch either at anchor or eating while under way. Expect to drop anchor in late afternoon to early evening. Late evenings are yours to relax, review the day's lessons, or chat with your fellow students.
What happens if there is a storm or bad weather while I'm on the class?
Due to the nature of sailing and the weather, we do not cancel classes nor are we able to provide refunds for bad weather.
Do I need to study before the class starts?
Yes, course material is included in the course fee and is mailed to you upon registration. A thorough study of the material in advance is required to get the most out of the course.
What airport should I fly to?
Jacksonville International Airport is a taxi ride away from the marina.
What kind of things do I need to bring on my sailing cruise?
1. Clothing appropriate for the season.
2. Lightweight long sleeve shirt for sun protection.
3. Jeans or pair of long pants for shore side expeditions.
4. Sweatshirt or warm pullover for cool nights.
5. White soled shoes or deck shoes
6. Foul weather gear (i.e. rain gear)
7. Sunscreen and Bug Spray
8. Hats and sunglasses with a strap
9. Sailing gloves
10. Personal toiletries, such as soap, shampoo, toothbrush, etc.
11. ASA Textbooks, ASA logbook, notebook, pencils, and navigation tools
12. Camera/Video Camera and Film
13. Dramamine, Bonine or other motion sickness medication
14. Personal medications (vessels are equipped with standard first aid kits). |