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Adult Sailing Classes

SEATTLE & KIRKLAND ADULT SAILING CLASSES

Learn to Sail with Certified ASA Courses at Northwest Sailing Centers

Whether you’re brand new to sailing or building toward skippering your own yacht, our adult sailing lessons in Seattle and Kirkland are designed for every level. At Northwest Sailing Centers, we offer a full range of ASA-certified classes to help you gain hands-on skills, confidence on the water, and unforgettable experiences.

Ready to get started? Book Seattle classes | Book Kirkland classes


SAILING BASICS (ASA101)

Learn to sail and crew aboard keelboats (22–55 ft) in this beginner ASA 101 course. You’ll master the essentials:

  • Sailing terminology

  • Sail trim

  • Helming

  • Knot tying

  • “Rules of the road” and safety procedures

Non-Member: Sat-Sun $595 or Mon-Tues $545

Member: Sat-Sun $495 or Mon-Tues $475


ASA101 REVIEW – SEATTLE

Build on your ASA 101 experience with guided on-water practice led by an instructor. Ideal for brushing up your sailing basics before advancing to ASA 103.

Non-Member: Thurs 4-8pm $189

Member: Thurs 4-8pm $159


CRUISING SKIPPER (ASA103) – SEATTLE

Advance your skills to become a certified skipper on boats up to 30 ft, with inboard/outboard engines and wheel or tiller steering.

Non-Member: Sat-Sun $795 

Member: Sat-Sun $645


BAREBOAT SKIPPER (ASA104) – SEATTLE

Take the helm aboard a 35–46 ft yacht alongside 3 fellow students. This immersive ASA 104 course teaches you how to charter and captain multi-day trips.

Non-Member: Fri-Sun $1,595 

Member: Sat-Sun $1,395


COASTAL NAVIGATION (ASA105) – KIRKLAND

Plan safe coastal voyages using paper charts and electronic navigation tools. This essential course is perfect for anyone pursuing ASA 106 or wanting strong navigation skills. Sat-Sun $545


SPINNAKER HANDLING – SEATTLE

Feel the thrill of downwind sailing as you learn to rig and trim an asymmetric spinnaker on our high-performance J/80 sailboats.Weekday $395, Weekend day $495


PRIVATE SAILING LESSON -SEATTLE, TACOMA, KIRKLAND

Customize your learning experience with private instruction, available aboard your boat or ours. Available with a 2-hour minimum.

PRICE: Members $95/hour; Non-Members $145/hour

DATES: Scheduled on a custom basis on either your boat or ours. Please call (866) 820 SAIL (7245) or inquire to book lessons.

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Why Choose Northwest Sailing Centers?

  • ASA-certified instructors with years of experience

  • Small class sizes for hands-on learning

  • Flexible locations: Seattle & Kirkland

  • Member discounts and flexible scheduling

  • Progress from beginner to advanced skipper


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is ASA 101?
A: ASA 101 (Sailing Basics) is the foundational course in the American Sailing Association certification program. It teaches you how to sail a keelboat as crew or skipper in light to moderate conditions.

Q: Do I need experience to start sailing in Seattle or Kirkland?
A: Nope! Our ASA 101 class is designed for complete beginners — just bring your curiosity and a love of the water.

Q: Can I charter a boat after taking ASA 104?
A: Yes, ASA 104 certification qualifies you to charter bareboats and lead multi-day sailing trips