ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising

ASA 103 is the American Sailing coastal cruising course for sailors who have already taken ASA 101 and are interested in increasing their coastal cruising skills. 

In ASA 103 students learn to skipper a sloop-rigged, auxiliary powered 33 foot keelboat by day (in moderate winds and sea conditions). This course covers cruising sailboat terminology, basic boat systems, auxiliary engine operation, docking procedures, intermediate sail trim, navigation rules, basic coastal navigation, anchoring, weather, safety and seamanship.

ASA 103 lessons on Flathead Lake generally begin at 9:00am, although this time may adjust slightly due to wind and weather. You’ll meet your ASA instructor at our sailing shop to discuss your expectations and goals. From there, you’ll work with your instructor to make a customized sailing plan on Flathead Lake to meet your sailing goals. Class ends by 4:30pm and there is a 30 minute on-shore lunch break around 12:30pm each day. Here’s a closer look at the plan for your two-day ASA 103 course:

Day 1:

8:45 a.m. – Check in at the sailing shop

9:00 a.m. – Meet with your classmates and instructor

9:30–12:30 – Sailing theory, depart the dock, hands-on sailing skills, dock the boat

12:30–1:00 — Lunch break on the shore

1:00–1:30 — Sailing theory

1:30–4:30 — Depart the dock, hands-on sailing skills, and dock the boat

​Day 2:

9:00 AM – Gather with classmates and instructor

9:15–12:30 – Depart the dock, sailing skills, dock the boat

12:30–1:00- Lunch break on the shore

1:00–3:00 – Sailing theory, depart the dock, sailing skills, dock the boat.

3:00-4:30 — Sailing exam. Review the exam with a class summary.

The weather on shore may be warm but it can be up to 20 degrees cooler on the water! Dress in layers and bring a warm, waterproof jacket. Dayton doesn’t have a vast array of food options so we recommend bringing your own lunch, snacks, and water each day. For class, you’ll want to bring your ASA textbook(s), ASA logbook, and a pencil to take notes.

• Safety equipment and life jackets (PFD Type V)
• ASA 103 textbook
• Allotted boat time
• Advanced sailing instructor
• ASA 103 certification upon successful completion of written exam (80% or better) and practical exams (100%).

We will ship your ASA 103 textbook in the mail when you confirm your sailing course on Flathead Lake with a deposit or full payment. Remember to read your textbook and complete all the practice quizzes before joining the class on your scheduled start date.

Sorry, we do not offer live aboard for this course.

Here are some recommendations on Where to Stay

Go Sail Flathead Lake typically operates from Memorial Day through mid-September, weather and Flathead Lake’s water levels permitting.

Most summer days bring steady 10–15 knot winds from the east, clear blue skies, and a refreshing breeze off the lake—perfect for smooth, exhilarating sailing. But this is Montana, where the weather has a mind of its own. Your safety is always our top priority, so we monitor conditions closely. You’ll receive a confirmation 7 days before your scheduled lesson, and if the forecast looks uncertain, we’ll work with you to reschedule.

Our favorite sailing routes showcase the breathtaking waters between the shoreline, the rugged beauty of Wild Horse Island, and the open expanse of Big Arm Bay—an area known for consistent, spirited winds. Want to learn more about exploring Flathead Lake? Check out our Flathead Lake Boating Guide.

For the safety of your pet, no pets are allowed on our equipment or premises. The policy is implemented for safety, hygiene, and compliance with insurance or local regulations.

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email. The date of receipt determines the applicable penalty. Client Cancellations: 60+ days prior: 10% of total payment retained + material costs (textbooks, logbooks, shipping). /30–60 days prior: 50% of total payment retained + material costs./Less than 30 days prior: 100% of total payment retained. Note: No refunds are issued for rescheduling, late arrivals, or early departures. A reschedule fee of 20% is possible if an alternate date is open and we can refill your spot. Company Cancellations: Weather/Unforeseen Events: If we cancel due to unsafe conditions or events beyond our control, we will offer an alternative date. No refunds are issued in these cases. Unconditional Cancellations: If we cancel for any other reason, a full refund will be provided. Liability Disclaimer: Go Sail Flathead Lake is not responsible for personal injury, equipment loss, or expenses resulting from travel delays, illness, or injury. We recommend purchasing independent travel insurance.