Three Days Aboard a 40‑Foot Catamaran: Liveaboard Sailing and ASA 114 Certification out of Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS CATAMARAN FIELD GUIDE

Three Days Aboard a 40‑Foot Catamaran: Liveaboard Sailing and ASA 114 Certification out of Annapolis

A 3‑day, 2‑night liveaboard course that teaches hands‑on sailing aboard a sloop‑rigged catamaran and culminates in ASA 114 certification — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

Three Days Aboard a 40‑Foot Catamaran: Liveaboard Sailing and ASA 114 Certification out of Annapolis.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Annapolis
Operator
Starboard Sailing
Category
Catamaran
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set off from Annapolis for a concentrated, hands‑on liveaboard course that compresses advanced catamaran seamanship into three days and two nights. Onboard a 30'–45' sloop‑rigged catamaran you’ll move from theory to practice: learning boat systems and auxiliary engines, refining sail trim, practicing docking and anchoring, and rehearsing emergency operations while stopping at scenic anchorages along Maryland’s coast.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE CERTIFICATION

Earn ASA 114 — Cruising Catamaran

The course culminates in the ASA 114 credential for cruising catamarans, with the textbook and course materials supplied and certification issued upon successful completion.

THE SKILLS

Advanced Hands‑On Seamanship

Expect focused, practical training in advanced sail trim, auxiliary engine systems, anchoring and mooring, docking techniques and emergency procedures — all practiced in real coastal and inland conditions.

THE ROUTE

Liveaboard Cruise Through Maryland Anchorages

The itinerary mixes underway passages with overnight stays at picturesque harbors and anchorages, offering time to practice deck work and to experience local waterfronts between training sessions.

What the day feels like

What the three‑day liveaboard feels like

The course is compact and immersive: days alternate between classroom briefings and hands‑on watches on deck, with evenings spent at anchor or in harbor. You’ll sail, trim, dock and anchor under instructor supervision, progressing from guided drills to confident, assessed execution while living aboard for the full 48 hours.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this course suits — and who should look elsewhere.

1
Aspiring CharterersDesigned for sailors preparing to charter catamarans: the curriculum focuses on systems, docking, anchoring and the skills needed for bareboat sailing.
2
Experienced Sailors Seeking CertificationA compact path to ASA 114 for sailors who already meet the prerequisite ASA 104 standard and want formal cruising catamaran endorsement.
3
Adults Comfortable AfloatNot suitable for minors — participants must be at least 18 years old and able to live aboard for two nights.
4
Those Ready for Intensive, Hands‑On TrainingBest for students prepared for concentrated, practical work at sea rather than a leisurely cruise; the format emphasizes skill acquisition over sightseeing.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Course textbook and materials are provided. Plan for personal provisions and incidentals; additional costs for provisions are approximately $200.

Included & Fees

The price includes the textbook and course materials, ASA 114 certification, and fuel and docking fees; provisions are an additional cost.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the course?

Three days and two nights of liveaboard instruction.

Where does the trip depart and return?

The cruise departs from Annapolis and returns to Annapolis after three days.

Do I receive ASA certification?

Yes — the course includes ASA 114 certification upon successful completion.

What is included and are there extra costs?

Textbook and materials, ASA 114 certification, and fuel and docking fees are included; plan for additional provisions costs of about $200.

Are there age or certification prerequisites?

Participants must be at least 18 years old and hold ASA 104 Bareboat Chartering as a prerequisite.