Adventure brief
Camp Hazen ASA 110
Spend two focused days learning dinghy basics at Camp Hazen ASA 110 on Narragansett Bay. This hands-on course builds practical skills—tacks, gybes, sail trim, and safety—in sheltered coastal waters ideal for beginners.
Camp Hazen ASA 110 sits on the shore of Narragansett Bay in Barrington, Rhode Island, offering a compact, two-day dinghy-sailing course designed to teach foundational skills and ignite an appetite for small-boat sailing. Over two full days on the water you'll rig simple dinghies, learn points of sail, practice tacks and gybes, and feel confident handling wind and waves under instructor supervision. The lesson begins where salt air and low marsh meet: Camp Hazen’s shoreline provides protected coves and steady afternoon sea breezes ideal for beginners.
Instructors move students from shoreside demonstrations to short solo and crewed runs, focusing on sail trim, basic navigation, launching and landing, righting a capsized dinghy, and basic safety and weather awareness. The boats are responsive small dinghies—sensitive enough to teach balance and trim but stable enough for new sailors to build skills quickly. Why book this as part of a Rhode Island trip? Barrington’s proximity to Providence and the broader Narragansett Bay means you’re learning in classic New England sailing country: tidal currents, shifting seaside light, and working waterfront history provide context to every maneuver.
For visitors who want a hands-on, time-compressed introduction to sailing, two days here compress months of trial-and-error into concentrated practice with an instructor. It’s a practical, confidence-building course that turns apprehension about capsizes and wind into competence and curiosity. What sets Camp Hazen ASA 110 apart is its focus on small-boat fundamentals in a venue that rewards repetition: sheltered coves let instructors repeat drills without long ferry runs, while variable bay breezes teach sailors to read conditions.
The experience pairs technical instruction with the sensory rewards of New England coastlines—salt on skin, the slap of waves against hull, and views across the bay that shift from glassy calm to chop as the tide turns. Logistics are straightforward: the course runs over two days at Camp Hazen in Barrington, Rhode Island. Exact meeting point, age limits, pricing, and what’s included should be confirmed with the operator prior to booking.
Bring layers, non-slip shoes, sunscreen, and a readiness to get wet—learning by doing is the point. For travelers who want an efficient, skill-forward intro to dinghy sailing in Narragansett Bay, Camp Hazen ASA 110 delivers practical instruction in a place that makes every tack feel like progress. The course follows ASA curriculum and is ideal for parents bringing kids, adults returning to the sport, and guests who want to add a practical day-sail skillset before renting larger boats.
Onshore briefings cover basic right-of-way rules, knotwork, and reading wind shifts; on-water drills reinforce muscle memory. Expect friendly, process-driven teaching that favors repetition and short feedback loops. Check the operator for exact gear lists, safety waivers, and age or health restrictions before arrival.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Dress in layersinfo
Mornings can be cool and afternoons warm; synthetic layers dry quickly and trap less water if you get splashed.
- 02Wear non-slip shoesessential
Closed-toe, non-marking deck shoes or old sneakers help with footing on wet decks and launching from shore.
- 03Learn a few knots beforehandinfo
Basic knots like the bowline and clove hitch speed onboarding—ask the instructor for a quick recap before getting underway.
- 04Monitor tides and windwarning
Bay conditions change with tide and sea breeze; plan travel and pickup times with tidal swings in mind to avoid difficult returns.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A well-fitting PFD provides safety and is required for on-water drills and capsize recovery.
summerEssentialNon-slip deck shoes
Provide secure footing during launches, tacks, and landings on wet hulls and docks.
EssentialMoisture-wicking layers
Quick-dry shirts and a light wind layer keep you comfortable through changing coastal conditions.
springEssentialWaterproof phone case and small dry bag
Protects essentials and allows you to bring a camera or phone for quick shots between drills.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Quiet marshside launch points for practicing close-hauled sailing, Short shoreline walks with bay views near the camp revealing tide pools and salt marsh flora
Local fauna
Harbor seals, Ospreys
Historic heritage
Barrington and the Narragansett Bay region have a long maritime history tied to fishing and small-boat commerce that shapes local harbor culture.
Mindful exploration
Respect tidal wetlands and avoid trampling salt marsh vegetation; use established launch points and follow Leave No Trace principles on shore.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Low aft quarters of a dinghy for action shots of trim and sheets, Shoreline near launch point for wide bay vistas and sailors working drills
- Subjects
- Sail trim and crew action, Bay light on water, Coastal marsh and harbor birds
- Best times
- Golden hour, Late afternoon sea breeze, Overcast for even light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior sailing experience?
No prior experience is required; the course is designed for beginners and covers rigging, basic maneuvers, and safety.
What is the minimum age?
Age limits are not specified here—contact the operator to confirm any minimum age or youth requirements before booking.
What should I bring to class?
Bring layered clothing, non-slip shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses with strap, and a water bottle; confirm a full gear list with the operator.
What happens if weather cancels a session?
Weather and wind can affect scheduling—confirm the operator's cancellation and rescheduling policy when you book.
Will I get certification after two days?
This is a concentrated introductory course; ask the operator directly whether it aligns with any ASA certification pathways or required classroom time.
Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
Meeting point details and transport are not provided here—check with the operator for directions and parking.