Sailing

The role of American Sailing Association in sailing

Government regulation on sailing in the United States is very limited. The American Sailing Association (ASA) fulfills the void created by the absence or limited oversight by the government on sailing in the US.

ASA is an association of sailors, sailing instructors, sailing schools and charter companies. It is intended to promote recreational sailing in USA. Its philosophy promotes “safe, fun and easy to learn” sailing. ASA provides certification standards for students as well as instructors. Approximately 85% of sailing schools in the US are affiliated with the ASA. ASA certificates are accepted by many charter companies including the two biggest, Moorings and Sun Sail.

It was established in 1983 when it first created its certification program. ASA maintains a network of 300 professional sailing schools worldwide that provides training as well as certification. Through their network of professionally certified schools, it provides basic keelboat sailing standards to more advanced cruising catamaran training courses to satisfy international standards. According to their web site, they have provided 836,900 American Sailing Association certificates to date. It has certified nearly 7,500 professional sailing instructors.

ASA certificates are recognized by many national authorities, charter and insurance companies.

Sailing Mediterranean?

The Costa Concordia running aground off the tiny Tuscan island of Giglio brought cruising and sailing to the forefront of every ones attention. Is a sailboat better option? If you are considering a sail boat option here are few basics to consider.

Pay attention to the type of vessel. There are sail boats, motor boats, catamarans and engine powered and sail Gullets to choose from.

Consider number of passengers in your group and select a vessel that fits your need and comfort. Keep in mind a pair can share a cabin. If you hire a skipper, he or she needs a cabin too. So, you may want to consider whether you need a skipper or not.

If you are not hiring a skipper, look into the license requirements of the area. Most Mediterranean countries do require experience as well as license.

In the Mediterranean, usual rental length of time runs a week from Saturday to Saturday. It may be difficult to deviate from this during the season.

The charter cost depends on the type of vessel and other factors. Do your research online before making a decision. In addition to charter fees, there are other costs involved.