Picture crystal-clear waters, stunning coastlines, and the thrill of harnessing the wind to explore new horizons. That's what sailing is all about, and we're here to help you experience it firsthand!
Unlike traditional sailing schools, we do not offer ASA courses individually. Instead, our training is structured into three levels: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced.
Each level combines two certifications into a single experience, allowing you to gain real-world sailing skills while progressing efficiently.
You will train aboard a modern cruising yacht in locations like the British Virgin Islands, Croatia, Tahiti, and Madeira, learning from expert instructors while sailing in some of the best waters in the world.
With Sailing Virgins’ structured programs, you will work toward multiple ASA certifications while developing practical sailing experience.
ASA 101 – Basic Keelboat Sailing
Learn the fundamentals of keelboat sailing, including terminology, sail handling, safety procedures, and docking techniques.
ASA 103 – Basic Coastal Cruising
Build on ASA 101 with coastal navigation, anchoring, seamanship, and handling a 40-foot or larger sailboat in different conditions.
ASA 103 is always paired with another certification. In the Beginner Sailing Course, it’s taught alongside ASA 101.
If you already have ASA 101, you can take ASA 103 and 104 together in the Intermediate Course. ASA 114 is also available as a catamaran endorsement if training on a catamaran.
ASA 104 – Bareboat Cruising
Gain the skills to skipper a cruising sailboat on a multi-day voyage, including passage planning, boat systems, docking, and onboard safety.
ASA 114 – Cruising Catamaran
Learn to handle a catamaran, including twin-engine maneuvering, anchoring, sail trim, and navigation techniques specific to multihulls.
ASA 114 is not offered as a standalone course. It’s always paired with ASA 104 in our Intermediate Sailing Course. If you join with some experience or at least ASA 101, you can earn ASA 114 along with two additional ASA certifications.
ASA 105 – Coastal Navigation
Master chart reading, course plotting, navigation tools, and passage planning to safely navigate coastal waters.
ASA 106 – Advanced Coastal Cruising
Learn advanced sailing techniques, including night sailing, heavy weather handling, and long-distance passage planning.
ASA 105 is a self-study course that is always paired with ASA 106 in the Advanced Sailing Course. It is not available separately. If you already have ASA 103, inquire about taking it as your second ASA level in an Intermediate Course.
When you sign up for our ASA Sailing School, you can expect:
*Please note that the only meals not included are those taken onshore.
Tripadvisor
Reviews
Eric P
@ericpR7101JAMar 2025 • Solo
Sailing Virgins is a great company that is well organized and has great values that match their clients. They keep a fun and positive attitude at all times and focus on the adventure and experience, not just the learning! Have been on trips with them twice and each time has been a blast!
Nathan S
@337nathansFeb 2025 • Couples
James is one of the best leaders I have ever met. He has a kind and genuine way about him that earns your respect immediately, not because he asks for it, but because he deserves it. He puts the group first and the person he’s teaching a close second. 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. It makes for a great learning experience and an even better trip. I would sail with him again in a heartbeat. Highly recommend.
Matt A
@mattaO2034KTAfter many years of debating a Sailing Virgins trip, finally pulled the trigger and joined on a catamaran adventure in the British Virgin Islands. Should not have waited so long. Went solo but had no issue blending with a likeminded crew of genuinely good and friendly people. Coordination prior to the trip was handled smoothly by the SV team and communications were frequent and clear. The boat itself was fantastic - well equipped and in great condition. Captains Chris and Fin kept us safe, entertained, and taught along the way. They went above and beyond fulfilling our desires for adventure, beach hoping, finding great moorings, and overall being enjoyable blokes to be around. Particular highlight was a beach bonfire after an already long sail day - vibes were great the entire week. Only downside was the trip had to end. Won't be long until the next one.
Javier S
@javiersO9063PWJan 2025 • Solo
Outstanding. Perfect combination between learning and fun. Finn, the instructor was excellent. He made sure that each one of us had a chance to practice not only sailing itself but also things like mooring and docking. I am particularly grateful that he made sure we tried as many times as necessary so that each one of us had done it right, which I am very grateful for. Definitely recommend!
Clara S
@clarasX2778YFJan 2025 • Solo
A great week learning how to sail a monohull with instructor Finn in one of the most renowned sailing spots in the world. The mixture of adventure and instruction was perfect, and I came away from the week with more confidence on the water.
Laksh
@its_lakshDec 2024 • Couples
Outstanding sailing experience with Virgin Sails in BVI. I got my ASA 103, 104 and 114 under the tutelage of Capt James Finney. He was a great instructor. Patient and thorough. The only drawback was because so much learning happened in one week we were unable to go as deep in the course material and practice the maneuvers as regular ASA course. This was not fault of the instructor or sailing course. It was just because three certifications were covered in one week on a Catamaran. We also got to snorkel and swim. Loved it !!
Stef
@stefK4277QXNov 2024 • Solo
Sailing Virgins! The best way to get into sailing or train to become a skipper. I had the best time with them in the BVI in November 2024. The concept is to bring sailing closer to younger people, which is quite different from what's mostly the case. SV offers an effective methodology to train their students, either from the ground up or to hone their skills. The training is practice-oriented and aims to encourage people to become self-sufficient, either as crew members or as skippers. More importantly, SV puts the emphasis on a positive experience. Sailing is an adventure and is fun; it's about collaboration as a crew and having a great time together.
Bluewater Breeze Co
@BluewaterBreezeCoNov 2024 • Solo
I attended the BVI Sailing week and had a blast! I took several ASA courses and added onto my sailing skill set! Flying into and out of Tortola was extremely easy. Kathi gave me clear directions on where to meet and when. James is a incredible teacher and instructor and could cater to each students learning style!
Kushagra V
@Extraordinary560702Nov 2024 • Solo
Great group of people and made new friends. A great experience that improves your life back home. Helpful to get excited about sailing and peaceful as well.
Our instructors are not just experts in their field. They're passionate about sharing their love of sailing with others.
Each instructor has undergone rigorous training through our very own Instructor Academy, ensuring they have the skills to guide you through your sailing class.
Trade your suit for a swimsuit and let Sailing Virgins show you a side of life you never knew existed.
The open water is calling your name, and adventure is waiting just over the horizon. See you on the high seas!
ㆍDo I need previous sailing experience?
No. If you are a beginner, our ASA 101 and 103 Beginner Course is the best place to start.
ㆍWhat types of boats will I sail on?
You'll train on modern, well-equipped yachts from top manufacturers. While specific models vary by location, all our vessels are chosen to ensure your safety, comfort, and an optimal learning environment.
ㆍHow do I reach the course location?
Most of our destinations are conveniently located near international airports. Although we don't arrange travel for you, we're happy to help you plan your trip. If you're interested in coordinating transportation with fellow students, we can introduce you to the group and facilitate shared arrangements.
ㆍCan I enroll as a solo traveler?
Absolutely! Many of our participants join solo, making it a fantastic opportunity to meet new people who share your passion for sailing.