CLEAR LAKE SHORES SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Two Days to Skipper: ASA 101 Cruising Yacht Course in Clear Lake Shores
A focused, two-day Basic Keelboat (ASA 101) course from SailTime Houston teaching novice sailors to handle 35' Jeanneau or Beneteau cruising yachts under USCG‑licensed instruction.
Two Days to Skipper: ASA 101 Cruising Yacht Course in Clear Lake Shores.
Embark on a two-day Basic Keelboat course designed for individuals with limited or no sailing experience. Instruction is split between classroom and on‑water time aboard brand‑new Jeanneau or Beneteau cruising yachts, with US Coast Guard licensed, ASA‑certified instructors guiding small groups through seamanship, navigation, sail trim and safety.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Modern Jeanneau and Beneteau Cruising Yachts
Classes are taught aboard brand‑new Jeanneau or Beneteau cruising yachts and SailTime Houston maintains a modern fleet of monohulls and catamarans for hands‑on learning.
USCG‑Licensed Instructors in Small Groups
All instructors are US Coast Guard licensed and ASA certified; SailTime Houston regularly limits classes to no more than four students for personalized instruction.
Skipper a 35' Sloop‑Rigged Keelboat
Training objectives include learning to skipper a 35' sloop‑rigged keelboat, sail terminology and parts, basic helm commands, sail trim and points of sail, buoyage, knot tying, basic navigation rules, seamanship and safety.
What the day feels like
What the Two‑Day Course Feels Like
Over two days (a total of 16 hours of classroom and on‑water experience), the course alternates classroom review and hands‑on time aboard a cruising yacht so beginners can move from terminology and knots to helming, sail trim and basic navigation in a compressed, practical format.
THE FLEET
Modern Jeanneau and Beneteau Cruising Yachts
Classes are taught aboard brand‑new Jeanneau or Beneteau cruising yachts and SailTime Houston maintains a modern fleet of monohulls and catamarans for hands‑on learning.
THE INSTRUCTION
USCG‑Licensed Instructors in Small Groups
All instructors are US Coast Guard licensed and ASA certified; SailTime Houston regularly limits classes to no more than four students for personalized instruction.
THE SKILLS
Skipper a 35' Sloop‑Rigged Keelboat
Training objectives include learning to skipper a 35' sloop‑rigged keelboat, sail terminology and parts, basic helm commands, sail trim and points of sail, buoyage, knot tying, basic navigation rules, seamanship and safety.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who should plan otherwise.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The course runs two days and comprises 16 hours of combined classroom and on‑water instruction; check available weekend and weekday schedules with SailTime Houston.
Course fees include print and digital study materials, ASA online review and pre‑test, the ASA 101 book, ASA logbook, certifications, fees, safety gear, and taxes.
The operator provides required safety gear and course materials; students should bring weather‑appropriate clothing and any personal items needed for a day on the water.
Instruction is broken up between classroom sessions and on‑water training aboard the cruising yachts to cover both theory and practical seamanship skills.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the ASA 101 Cruising Class Yacht course?
The course is two days long, totaling 16 hours of classroom and on‑water experience.
Where do I meet for the course?
Meet at SailTime Houston for check‑in and orientation prior to classroom and on‑water sessions.
What are the age restrictions for participants?
Sailors aged 12 to 17 may participate but must have a guardian present and receive approval from the base director.
Who teaches the course and how large are classes?
All instructors are US Coast Guard licensed and ASA certified; SailTime Houston regularly limits classes to no more than four students for personalized instruction.
What does the course fee cover and how much does it cost?
Student rates are $399 for weekday sessions and $425 for weekend/holiday sessions; the price includes print and digital study materials, ASA online review and pre‑test, ASA 101 book, ASA logbook, certifications, fees, safety gear, and taxes. SailTime members receive a 10% discount on courses.
What types of boats are used for training?
Training is conducted aboard brand‑new Jeanneau or Beneteau cruising yachts and SailTime Houston’s modern fleet of monohulls and catamarans.
Are there optional bundles or additional training available?
Optional bundles are offered at checkout, including beginner bundles and extended skill sessions; specific bundle pricing varies by weekday or weekend options.