Do You Want to Be an ASA Sailing Instructor?

Have a conversation with a non-sailor about sailing and quite often they will give you a bewildered look as if you own the keys to some secret paradise. While sailing is an involved task that requires time and effort to learn, it does not have to be like being part of an exclusive community. You can teach people to learn to sail, and it only takes a few more classes than you already have. 

Share your love for sailing by becoming an instructor. If you are an experienced sailor, a USCG licensed captain, and you want to teach others to sail, you can become an ASA certified instructor.

ASA Sailing Instructor clinics test existing skills and knowledge while teaching a structured curriculum and proven presentation techniques. ASA certified sailing instructors have shown they measure up to a national standard which is used by more than 90% of the commercial sailing schools in the country. Take the challenge and attend an ASA Instructor Qualification Clinic (IQC).

Instructor Qualification Clinics (IQC) are being held monthly around the country and in the British Virgin Islands.

Find an Instructor Qualification Clinic near you:

See The IQC Schedule

Steps to Becoming an ASA Certified Sailing Instructor

1. Review the ASA Standards of Certification to better understand the requirements for both students and Instructors. If you feel you are fully prepared to undertake an evaluation of your competency based on these Standards, then complete the Instructor Qualification Clinic Application. Indicate your interest in attending the Basic Keelboat Sailing Clinic. If you feel you are qualified, you may also indicate your interest in attending advanced instructor upgrade clinic(s) through Bareboat Cruising Instructor that are offered at your chosen location during the same scheduled period.
2. Enroll in one of the ASA Instructor Qualification Clinics. You will receive notification of your acceptance. If you are not accepted, your fee(s) will be refunded, less a $10 processing fee. If you are admitted to the IQC, you will receive a Study Package that contains reference materials to help you prepare for your clinic. Candidates need to enroll in their intended clinic no later than fourteen days prior to the opening date of the clinic.
3. Attend the Basic Keelboat Sailing Clinic. This two and one half day clinic is designed to verify your qualifications as an ASA Basic Keelboat Sailing Instructor. The format includes a review of sailing theory, boat handling abilities, and communication skills all leading to formal evaluation of your skill in these areas. Your competency will be compared with the ASA’s internationally recognized Standards. This is not a course of instruction as such. While you will gain valuable knowledge from your experience in the Clinic your competence as a sailor and as a teacher are presumed. You are attending for the purpose of becoming Certified. Following successful completion of your IQC, the ASA will send you your Instructor credentials and graduation letter.
4. Progress to the next level(s) of Certification after having completed your Basic Keelboat Sailing Clinic. If you do wish to continue through the higher levels, you must have applied for and paid the required Attendance Fees in advance of continuing your Certification process at the same Clinic location. These higher levels are usually offered in the one or two days immediately following the Basic Keelboat Sailing Clinic. Check the current schedule of IQCS for details.
5. Teach on an active basis using your knowledge and newly confirmed certified status. You are required to teach at an ASA Certified Training Facility and your credentials will serve you well in any educational undertaking you may choose. However, only those ASA Instructors who are affiliated with an ASA school may certify students to the appropriate ASA Standards. ASA is a resource for instructors and schools and can assist with providing information about available educational and employment opportunities. Find out more about having your business become an ASA Certified Sail Training Facility.

You may enroll in an IQC if you have the ambition to become classified as a professional sailing instructor, and you:

Do I need a USCG License?

ASA Small Boat (210) Instructor

• Are 18 years of age or older
• Possess at least 3 years of sailing experience
• Have teaching experience or can demonstrate an aptitude for clearly communicating sailing concepts to the novice sailor
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification
• Are capable of performing the standards described in the official certification logbook

ASA Keelboat (201) Instructor

• Are 18 years of age or older
• Possess at least 3 years of sailing experience
• Must have the 101 Basic Keelboat level or challenge the exam at an ASA Affiliate School
• Have teaching experience or can demonstrate an aptitude for clearly communicating sailing concepts to the novice sailor
• Are capable of performing the standards described in the ASA International Log Book