Two Days to ASA Certification: An Accelerated ASA 101 & 103 Course on Lake St. Clair

HARRISON TOWNSHIP SAILING FIELD GUIDE

Two Days to ASA Certification: An Accelerated ASA 101 & 103 Course on Lake St. Clair

An intensive, two‑day combination course for ages 13+ that covers keelboat fundamentals and coastal cruising essentials—this guide explains what to expect, how the days flow, and how to pack.

Two Days to ASA Certification: An Accelerated ASA 101 & 103 Course on Lake St. Clair.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Harrison Township
Operator
Lake St. Clair Sailing School
Category
Sailing
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

This accelerated combination of ASA 101 and ASA 103 distills keelboat fundamentals and coastal cruising skills into a two‑day, hands‑on classroom on the water. Instruction is delivered aboard 30‑ft. keelboats and covers sail theory and terminology, safety and man‑overboard drills, rules of the road, basic chart work and navigation, engine troubleshooting, weather observations and more; a written exam is required and successful students receive ASA certification.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE CERTIFICATION

ASA 101 & 103 Certification

Students who complete the course and pass the required written exam receive ASA certification; the course price includes ASA testing fees and new student registration and also provides a logbook.

THE TRAINING

Keelboat Fundamentals and Coastal Cruising

Hands‑on instruction aboard the boat focuses on sail theory, terminology, safety drills, rules of the road and coastal cruising essentials such as required equipment, engines and basic navigation—all presented in an accelerated classroom afloat.

THE SCHEDULE

Intensive Weekend Format

The course runs Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. as an accelerated two‑day class; participants should expect that additional time may be required and plan accordingly. The program accepts students ages 13 and up.

What the day feels like

What the Two Days Feel Like

The learning is pragmatic and condensed: you check in at the marina, board a 30‑ft. keelboat and spend the days alternating hands‑on drills and instructor‑led briefings. Expect sail handling, safety rehearsals and navigation lessons conducted from the cockpit or foredeck, culminating with the written ASA exams and consolidation of skills in a logbook.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this intensive weekend is best suited for—and who should consider alternatives.

1
Teen & Adult LearnersSuitable: participants aged 13 and up who want an accelerated route to ASA certification and can commit to full weekend days.
2
Aspiring Coastal CruisersSuitable: sailors who want both keelboat basics and an introduction to daylight coastal cruising systems, engines and navigation in a compact curriculum.
3
Weekend Time‑CompressorsCaveat: the course is intensive and labeled accelerated; if you prefer a slower pace or modular learning, a standard multi‑week class may be better.
4
Those Prone to SeasicknessBring or take seasickness medication in advance—participants should plan for motion on the water and follow medical guidance before boarding.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Sunscreen, a jacket, light food and snacks, water and seasickness medication (take an hour before if needed).

Timing & Schedule

Two‑day course held Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; the accelerated format may require an extra half day.

Course Materials & Fees

Price includes ASA testing fees, new student registration and a logbook; there is an additional fee of $70 for the recommended course books.

Meeting Point

Meet at Lambercht Marina (Markley Marine), 31300 N River Rd, Harrison Charter Township, MI 48045.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the course each day?

The accelerated combination class runs two days—Saturday and Sunday—from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and may require an additional half‑day if more time is needed.

What is the minimum age to participate?

Participants must be age 13 or older.

What does the price cover and are there any extra fees?

The listed price includes ASA testing fees, new student registration and a logbook; there is an extra fee of $70 for the printed course books.

Will there be an exam?

Yes. A written exam is required; students who successfully complete the course and exam receive ASA certification.

Where do we meet for the course?

The meeting point is Lambercht Marina (Markley Marine), 31300 N River Rd, Harrison Charter Township, MI 48045.

What should I bring to be comfortable on the water?

Bring sunscreen, a jacket, light snacks, water and seasickness medication (take it about an hour before if you need it).