How to Learn to Sail in Montana: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re ready to learn to sail but don’t want to travel to the coast, you can get started right here in Montana! With its vast size, steady winds, and the breathtaking wild forests that surround it, Flathead Lake is a popular destination to learn to sail. Here is all you need to know to learn to sail in Montana:
Find a reputable Montana sailing school
While there are several options for Montana sailing, Go, Sail Flathead Lake is the only sailing school in Montana that is accredited by the American Sailing Association. That means it is the only sailing school in the state where you can earn ASA certifications, which prove your competence to insurance providers and charter companies around the world.
Go Sail Flathead Lake’s class sizes are always small, allowing our knowledgeable and friendly instructors to give each student personalized attention, which ensures they leave the course with confidence at the helm.
Sign up for beginner ASA courses
If you want to start from the beginning, enroll in ASA 101, Basic Keelboat Sailing. This two- day introductory course will teach you to handle a 22-to 25-foot sailboat in light to moderate conditions, and it is a prerequisite for all other ASA courses.
If you want to go beyond the fundamentals and fast-track your sailing education, you can complete ASA 101, 103, and 104 together in just six days! This option is not only quicker, but taking all three classes at once costs less than taking them individually, and you can build momentum each day without forgetting important information in the time between classes. And, once you’ve earned certification for ASA 104, you are qualified to apply for your International Proficiency Certificate, which is recognized by charter companies worldwide.
Prepare for your class
All ASA courses come with an accompanying textbook, which we will send to you in the mail when you sign up for the course. It’s best to study the textbook thoroughly beforehand so that you can get the most out of your time in the course.
You can also take the ASA’s free online sailing course, “Your First Sail”. In just 30–45 minutes, it will help familiarize you with some of the concepts covered in the certification course.
On class day, dress in layers, including a warm, weatherproof jacket. Bring your own lunch, snacks, and water, as well as your textbook, logbook, and a pencil.
Practice makes perfect!
There’s no doubt that ASA courses make more confident and competent sailors, but there is no substitute for getting lots of practice on the water. You can rent a sailboat on Flathead Lake here.
Consider advanced sailing courses
In addition to logging plenty of hours sailing, you can continue your education with the ASA’s many advanced courses to sharpen specific skills like navigation.
Now it’s time to experience the joy of sailing for yourself! Enroll in learn to sail courses at the only ASA certifying Montana sailing school!