7 Day Catamaran ASA Sailing Class in San Diego

If you’ve ever dreamed of learning to sail on your own or simply want a real taste of the cruising life, the 7 Day Catamaran ASA Sailing Class in San Diego offers an immersive, hands-on experience that goes beyond the typical vacation. Led by an award-winning team of instructors, this program combines classroom-style learning with actual sailing on modern cruising catamarans, all set against the stunning backdrop of La Jolla and Catalina Island.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the focus on small class sizes (capped at six travelers) ensures personalized coaching, which is essential when mastering something as nuanced as sailing a multi-hulled vessel. Second, the blend of certification and practical sea skills means you’re not just learning theory—you’re doing real-world sailing, culminating in four ASA certifications: 101, 103, 104, and 114. A potential drawback? The price tag of $4,200 per person might seem steep to some, but when you consider the all-inclusive nature—meals, certifications, boat, fuel, and more—it offers significant value for those serious about sailing.

This tour is ideal for those with a moderate physical fitness level who are eager to learn a new skill, gain confidence on the water, and enjoy a week of adventure in California’s beautiful coastlines. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some sailing experience, this program aims to elevate your boating skills and prepare you for offshore cruising.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Package: Meals, certifications, boat, linens, fuel, taxes, and marina fees are included, providing clear upfront costs.
• Hands-On Learning: Expect to sail from San Diego to Catalina Island, gaining real-world experience and offshore seamanship.
• Expert Instruction: Led by award-winning ASA-certified instructors with a focus on personalized coaching.
• Certification Focus: Earn ASA 101, 103, 104, & 114 certifications, useful for future sailing adventures.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 6 travelers ensures individual attention and a more intimate learning environment.
• Ideal for Aspiring Sailors: Perfect for those wanting practical skills, coastal navigation, and a taste of liveaboard sailing.

Why Choose the 7 Day Catamaran ASA Sailing Class?

We loved how this program combines learning and adventure seamlessly. It’s designed for those who want to get their hands dirty, literally, on a modern catamaran. The small class sizes mean you get personalized coaching, which really helps when tackling complex skills like boat handling and navigation. The certification process is well-integrated into the experience, so it’s not just a fun trip but also a stepping stone for future sailing endeavors.

We also appreciated the all-inclusive package. Knowing that your meals, port fees, fuel, and certification logs are covered makes planning straightforward. Plus, the opportunity to sail from San Diego to Catalina, with its stunning island vistas and sheltered waters, offers an ideal setting for both learning and relaxation.

A potential consideration for travelers is the price—$4,200 per person—though when you break down the costs, it’s a comprehensive package that provides significant value. If you’re someone who truly wants to learn, build confidence, and earn recognized sailing certifications, this course could be a worthwhile investment.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Start Point and Duration: The program begins at the San Diego meeting point, at 955 Harbor Island Dr, suite 180, with a start time of 9:00 am. Over the course of a week, you’ll spend your days aboard a modern cruising catamaran, learning the ins and outs of sailing from highly qualified instructors. The week culminates in sailing to Catalina Island, a highlight for many — not just as a scenic destination but as a practical sailing experience.

Catalina Island: This is the only stop included, and it’s a perfect spot for consolidating your newfound skills. The sheltered waters and scenic surroundings make it an ideal classroom for practicing boat handling, navigation, and safety procedures.

Learning Focus: Throughout, you’ll learn fundamental sailing techniques, coastal navigation, boat handling, and liveaboard seamanship. The curriculum is designed to give you the confidence and skills to skipper a modern cruising catamaran. The real-world experience of sailing through coastal waters, managing the boat, and handling unforeseen situations is what stands out here.

Meals and Provisions: The package includes all meals, which means you can focus fully on your learning without worrying about additional costs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, accommodating various dietary preferences.

Certification Process: The ASA certifications you earn—101 (Basic Keelboat), 103 (Basic Coastal Cruising), 104 (Bareboat Cruising), and 114 (Multihull Safety & Seamanship)—are internationally recognized. These are valuable for anyone who anticipates cruising in different regions or pursuing sailing as a hobby or profession.

The Experience on the Water

The quality of the boats used during the program is worth mentioning. The fleet consists of impeccably maintained, modern cruising catamarans that are designed for stability and ease of handling, even for beginners. The fact that students are fully immersed in the liveaboard cruising lifestyle makes this a unique opportunity to learn not just sailing, but also the practical aspects of living aboard.

Expect to spend your days practicing sailing techniques—setting sails, tacking, gybing, anchoring, and man-overboard drills—under the watchful eye of your instructor. Many reviews highlight the personalized coaching, noting that the small group size made a real difference: “We loved the way the instructors took time to ensure everyone was confident,” one reviewer said.

The offshore skills gained here prepare you to sail confidently in a variety of conditions, which is the real value of the ASA certifications. That said, the program emphasizes safety and seamanship, making sure students are well-prepared for future independent sailing adventures.

What Travelers Say & Additional Details

Though the tour is new and has no official reviews yet, the structure and offerings suggest it’s a well-rounded program. The small group size (max 6) ensures personalized attention, a crucial component when learning complex skills on the water. The fact that service animals are allowed and that it’s near public transportation adds to the accessibility and convenience for different travelers.

The tour’s flexible cancellation policy—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—also offers peace of mind, especially given unpredictable weather or scheduling conflicts.

Pricing and Value

At $4,200 per person, this experience might seem on the higher end, but it’s essential to consider what’s included. You’re getting certification, boat time, meals, provisions, fuel, and all fees covered, which would cost significantly more if booked separately. For those serious about acquiring sailing skills and certifications, this program offers a practical and immersive pathway that’s difficult to match.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for aspiring sailors, adventure lovers, or anyone wanting to combine a learning experience with scenic coastal cruising. It’s particularly suited for those who want hands-on training in a small, supportive group. Given the focus on both certification and practical skills, it’s perfect for beginners ready to take their first steps or more experienced sailors seeking formal instruction to improve their offshore competence.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an authentic, practical sailing course that offers more than just classroom theory, this 7-day program in San Diego is a compelling choice. The combination of expert instruction, hands-on sailing, and the chance to earn certifications in a stunning setting offers a high-value experience for those committed to learning the ropes.

While the price is not insignificant, the all-inclusive approach and focus on real-world skills make it well worth considering. Whether you want to coast along the California shoreline or prepare for future offshore adventures, this course provides a solid foundation—plus a week of unforgettable sights and sea air.

FAQ

What certifications will I earn during this course?
You will earn ASA 101, 103, 104, and 114 certifications, which cover basic keelboat handling, coastal cruising, bareboat cruising, and multihull safety and seamanship.

Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the course is designed for those with a moderate physical fitness level, and the curriculum starts with fundamental skills, building up to more advanced techniques.

How many people will be in my class?
The class size is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring you get personalized coaching and attention from the instructors.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals are included in the package, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available to accommodate dietary needs.

What is the starting point and schedule?
The program begins at 955 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, at 9:00 am. The itinerary is structured to maximize hands-on sailing experience, ending back at the start point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, providing flexibility in case of weather issues or scheduling conflicts.

What should I bring?
While the tour covers essentials, it’s good to bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. The boat supplies linens and provisions, so you only need to pack personal items.

Whether you’re dreaming of a future as a sailor or simply want a week of adventure with a practical purpose, this sailing course in San Diego offers a rare chance to learn from the best while enjoying some of California’s best waters.