ASA 104 · Bareboat Cruising
The standard that qualifies you to bareboat charter up to 50 feet. Three days aboard the Perception — a Hunter 38 — covering passage planning, heavy weather techniques, advanced boat handling, and the seamanship to cruise independently with confidence.
Apply for ASA 104ASA 104 is for sailors who have completed ASA 103 and are ready to move from coastal day sailing to independent bareboat cruising on larger vessels. The course is conducted aboard the Perception, a Hunter 38, and covers the full range of skills required for extended, self-sufficient cruising.
Accommodation aboard is available in two private cabins (up to 2 students per cabin) and one settee/saloon berth (non-private, limit 1 student). Students in the settee berth receive a $100 discount.
Three days, 9am to 4pm each day, aboard the Perception (Hunter 38). Up to 4 students with a USCG-licensed instructor. Live-aboard available in two cabins (limited space) plus settee berth. Linens available for $25 per person.
Plan a coastal passage including weather routing, fuel and provisions, float plan, and contingency planning.
Reef and unreef under sail, heave-to, manage a knockdown, and make sound decisions in deteriorating conditions.
Dock and undock a 38-foot vessel in varying conditions, pick up mooring balls, set and retrieve anchors, and manage the vessel under power in close quarters.
Through-hulls, seacocks, bilge systems, electrical, engine maintenance, and emergency procedures for a larger cruising vessel.
Coastal chart work, GPS navigation, VHF radio procedures, and interpreting marine weather for multi-day passages.
Bedding package for live-aboard students.
Call 231.941.0535 to check dates, or apply online.
Classes run mid-May through early October. ASA 103 certification required. Contact the office to confirm availability and reserve live-aboard space.