The world needs skilled sailors.

It takes a courageous soul to take the helm of a sailboat and set out for distant waters – one whose heart beats to answer the call, and whose mind is in tune with all the sea and sailboat will require of them. Sunsets, stories – even family legacies – await just over the horizon. Whether your sailing stories have yet to be written or you’re ready for your next chapter, the world needs competent, safe, well-educated sailors who know how to create a great day on the water for everyone aboard. Welcome aboard, sailor.

Beginners

Learn to sail and become a sailor.

Sailors

Earn advanced sailing certifications.

Professionals

Become a sailing instructor.

ASA certifications for every sailor

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Continuing education with online classes

As an extension of our core curriculum offered at ASA Affiliate Schools, American Sailing offers ongoing sailing education from the comfort of your own home. Each class is a supplement to one of our certification courses, and is structured with interactive presentations by seasoned sailors who answer your live questions during the class. Many of the classes are available on-demand as well, and all classes are available on-demand for a limited time to attendees. Take advantage of this powerful continuation to your sailing education today! American Sailing members enjoy discounted rates.

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Latest articles

Deaf Sailors Navigating New Waters: Overcoming Challenges in Sailing Education

For deaf sailors, the thrill of taking to the water is paired with unique challenges. Learning to sail can be demanding for anyone, but for those who are deaf, the experience requires adjustments, patience, and often customized teaching methods. While instructors and students must work around these barriers, many deaf sailors successfully navigate the learning process and thrive.

Women in Sailing – Captain Laurel Seaborn

This Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting Laurel Seaborn—sailor, maritime historian, and director of a new Women’s Sailing Program at Athens Sailing School. From growing up on a sailboat to crewing historic tall ships and studying seafaring women of the past, Laurel brings a wealth of experience and passion to empowering women on the water. Her all-women classes focus on confidence, community, and hands-on training in the Aegean Sea.

The Legendary S/V Bubbles Return with ASA-Certified Virgin Island Sailing School

S/V Bubbles, the legendary sailboat from Chasing Bubbles, is back! Now restored, she offers ASA-certified courses with the Virgin Island Sailing School. Learn to sail in the Caribbean while supporting youth programs that empower at-risk kids.

SailGP Brings High-Octane Racing to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York

Sailing isn’t just about following official rules—it’s also about respecting the unwritten ones. From anchoring etiquette to VHF communication and marina manners, here’s how to sail with courtesy and seamanship.

Cooking at Sea: How to Manage the Motion of the Ocean

Explore the essential skills to manage cooking in motion, keeping things efficient, safe, and delicious with Gio and Julie Cappelli.

Sink or Sail?

ASA Director of Education Jenny McCain shares her story of learning to sail in an opti at summer camp as a youth.