Certification
Explore ASA certifications
All ASA sailing certifications offered by Sailing Virgins.
Beginner Course2 Days • From $3,790
ASA 102: Small Boat Sailing
Take your sailing from "I can do this" to "Watch me fly." Advanced techniques that turn beginners into confident crew leaders.
Master Performance SailingFrom $3,790 per person
5.0 / 217 Reviews
ASA Certified
4-6 Students Max
6 Destinations
Prerequisites: ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Sailing
Duration: 2 Days
Available: Year Round
Transform from basic to confident sailorPerformance techniques used by racing crewsAdvanced sail trim that makes boats flyIntegrated into our comprehensive Beginner courses
You've got the basics down. You can tack, jibe, and hold a course. But there's a difference between sailing and truly flying. ASA 102 Small Boat Sailing is where you learn to make a yacht dance.
This performance-focused certification teaches you to handle a sloop-rigged keelboat (20-30 feet) in winds up to 20 knots during daylight hours. You'll master advanced sail trim, close-quarters maneuvering, and the art of crewing efficiently. It's the bridge between nervous beginner and confident sailor.
At Sailing Virgins, we integrate ASA 102 skills into our Beginner courses because we believe in comprehensive education. You won't just learn to sail — you'll learn to sail well. By the end of your week, you'll understand not just what to do, but why it works.
The difference between an ASA 101 sailor and an ASA 102 sailor? One follows instructions. The other anticipates them.
What You'll Master in ASA 102
Advanced Sail Trim
Optimize your sails for every point of sail. Feel the difference when draft position, twist, and tension are perfectly dialed in.
Rudderless Sailing
Control your boat using only sail balance. A skill that separates good sailors from great ones.
Close-Quarters Maneuvering
Slow and go, backing down, precision docking in tight spaces. Look like a pro in the marina.
Crew Overboard Excellence
Master multiple recovery methods: Figure-8, quick stop, gybe approach. Be the one who saves the day.
Anchoring Mastery
Five different anchoring techniques for any bottom type and weather condition.
Crew Leadership
Clear helm commands, winch handling, line management. Lead your crew with confidence.
Heaving-To
The ultimate control technique. Stop your boat mid-sail for lunch, repairs, or to catch your breath.
Systems Overview
Basic understanding of marine plumbing and diesel engines. Know your boat inside and out.
Ready to Start Your ASA 102 Adventure?
Join thousands of students who have transformed their lives through sailing.
Courses year-round
6 destinations
ASA certified
Starting from $3,790 • Accommodations & meals included
Your ASA 102 Journey
Here's what a week of transformation looks like, day by day. Click to explore each day's adventure.
Morning
Theory: Advanced sail trim principles, wind dynamics, heel control
Afternoon
On-water: Sail trim optimization, telltale perfection, heeling drills
Evening
Debrief and theory review: Crew communication protocols
Skills:Sail shape optimizationHeel angle controlTelltale reading masteryDraft positioning
See ASA 102 in Action
Watch our instructors demonstrate the performance sailing techniques you'll master in ASA 102.
Advanced Sail Trim Techniques
Tripadvisor Reviews
What Our Students Say
5.0
(217+ reviews)
Outstanding Leadership and Seamless Instruction
James is one of the best leaders I have ever met. He is especially good at teaching by letting you learn through doing. He doesn't over-explain or hover. Instead, he gives you space to practice and steps in with the right feedback at the right time.
N
Nathan S
Feb 2025 • Couples
The best sailing school around!
I attended the BVI Sailing week and had a blast! I took several ASA courses and added onto my sailing skill set! James is an incredible teacher and instructor and could cater to each student's learning style!
B
Bluewater Breeze Co
Nov 2024 • Solo
Meet Your Captains
Our instructors aren't just certified — they're seasoned sailors who have logged thousands of miles and trained hundreds of students.
What's Included in Your Course
Included in Your Fee
- Intensive 2-day advanced training
- ASA 102 certification exam and processing
- Course materials and digital resources
- Expert instruction from certified captains
- Hands-on practice in real conditions
- Performance sailing techniques manual
Plan for Separately
- Accommodation (unless part of bundled Beginner course)
- Meals (unless part of bundled course)
- Transportation to/from the course location
- Personal travel insurance (required)
Budget Tip
Most students budget an additional $300-500 for shore meals, drinks, and personal expenses. Flights vary by destination and origin.
The True Value of Your Investment
~$1,500
7 Nights Yacht Accommodation
~$800
ASA Certifications & Exams
~$1,000
Professional Instruction
Priceless
Skills, Friends, Memories
Your Price
From $3,790
per person, all-inclusive
Is ASA 102 Right for You?
We want to make sure this course is a perfect fit. Here's who thrives in our programs — and who might prefer something different.
This Course is Perfect If You...
- ASA 101 graduates ready to level up
- Sailors who want to crew confidently on racing boats
- Those seeking performance sailing skills
- Weekend sailors looking to improve boat handling
- Anyone planning to progress to ASA 103 and beyond
- Sailors who want to understand the "why" behind techniques
This Might Not Be for You If...
- Complete beginners (ASA 101 required)
- Those only interested in motorboating
- Sailors not interested in performance optimization
Looking for something different? We offer private charters for groups who want a customized experience, or can recommend other options if our courses aren't the right fit.
Real Talk
We Get It. Booking Can Feel Scary.
Every week, students arrive with the same worries. Here's the honest truth about what to expect.
The Solo Traveler Manifesto
Here's a secret: most people who book with us are solo travelers. They come alone but leave with lifelong friends. Living on a boat for a week creates bonds that typical vacations never could.
By day two, you'll forget you arrived alone. You'll be laughing over breakfast, cheering each other on during sail training, and sharing stories under the stars. Our small crew size (4-6 students) means everyone connects.
Many of our students have traveled the world solo—but they say a Sailing Virgins trip is where they've made their deepest friendships. There's something about the sea that strips away pretense.
82%
arrive solo
94%
stay in touch with crew
67%
have sailed together again
“I was terrified to show up alone. By day three, I was planning our reunion trip.”
— Sarah K., ASA 101 Graduate
Still have questions? We're happy to chat. Email us anytime.
ASA Certified School
5.0 / 217 Reviews
Flexible Booking
Your Sailing Certification Journey
See where Small Boat Sailing fits in your path to becoming a confident captain.
Ready for the Next Level?
With ASA 101 + 102 complete, you're ready for our Intermediate Course (ASA 103 + 104). Learn navigation, longer passages, and by the end you'll have your bareboat charter certification — the key to chartering yachts worldwide!
Continue to IntermediateFrequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about ASA 102
ASA 102 is not strictly required for ASA 103 or 104, but the skills it teaches are invaluable. Many schools integrate ASA 102 content into their programs. At Sailing Virgins, we include ASA 102 techniques in our Beginner courses because we believe in comprehensive training.
Still have questions? We're here to help!
View all FAQsWhere You Can Take ASA 102
Life on an ASA 102 Course
Your ASA 102 Journey Awaits
Don't let another year slip by wondering “what if.”
Take the helm of your sailing story today.
Questions? Email us at [email protected]
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