KIRKLAND SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Two Days to Keelboat Confidence: ASA 101 from Carillon Point
A focused, two-day ASA101 course at Carillon Point Marina that teaches knots, sail trim, seamanship and culminates in ASA certification.
Two Days to Keelboat Confidence: ASA 101 from Carillon Point.
Adventure brief
Two Days to Keelboat Confidence: ASA 101 from Carillon Point
Embark on an intensive, two-day sailing course based at Carillon Point Marina in Kirkland: hands-on instruction aboard keelboats (22–55 ft) that covers knots, sail trim, helming, rules of the road and seamanship so you leave able to contribute as a confident crew member.
Experience the thrill of sailing with Northwest Sailing’s Sailing Basics ASA101 course at Carillon Point Marina in Kirkland, Washington. Over two exciting days, you'll gain hands-on experience aboard a keelboat, learning essential skills such as knot tying, sail trim, and basic seamanship. This course is designed for beginners eager to build confidence on the water with expert, patient instructors guiding every step. The location at Carillon Point offers calm, sheltered waters perfect for beginners, with stunning views of Lake Washington and the surrounding Cascades. Beyond just sailing skills, you’ll learn how to work as a crew, improve your understanding of wind and weather patterns, and enjoy the peaceful yet invigorating rhythm of life on the water. Whether you’re looking to start a new hobby, prepare for certification, or simply spend time outdoors in a unique way, this course offers a memorable mix of education and adventure. When not on the water, Kirkland’s charming waterfront provides great dining and leisure options to round out your trip.
Route Schematic
Course Itinerary — Key Training Stops
The weekend (or consecutive‑day) format moves from briefing and rigging to progressive on‑water skill blocks and safety drills.
Orientation & Launch at Carillon Point Marina
Ground orientation, distribution of the ASA textbook and equipment checks before launching for on‑water training.
Fundamentals: Lines, Knots, Sail Trim
Hands‑on practice of lines and knots, sail trim, points of sail and basic helming during the core on‑water hours.
Maneuvers & Safety Drills
Tacking, jibing, upwind/downwind sailing, rules of the road and crew‑overboard recovery drills to consolidate seamanship.
Participants must be at least 18 years old; the operator runs the course over two consecutive days and may adjust on‑water details for safety and training needs.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Aboard Real Keelboats
Sixteen hours of on‑water training aboard keelboats ranging from 22 to 55 feet puts you at the sheets and the helm, practicing tacking, jibing, sail trim and basic seamanship under expert instruction.
ASA Textbook and Certification Included
The course fee includes the ASA textbook mailed to you in advance, plus the ASA test and certification fees, so successful students leave with formal recognition of their skills.
No Prior Experience Needed
Designed for newcomers as well as novices who want a solid foundation, the class requires no previous sailing experience and runs across two consecutive days.
What the day feels like
What Two Intensive Days Feel Like
The course is an immersive, two‑day program that combines shore briefing and on‑water practice: you learn terminology and knots, rig and trim sails, take turns at the helm, and run drills such as crew-overboard recovery to build practical, repeatable skills.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course fits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Course price includes the ASA textbook (mailed ahead) and ASA test and certification fees.
Two consecutive days of instruction totaling 16 hours of on‑water training (typically 8 hours per day).
Tipping the instructor is customary within the industry and typically ranges from 10% to 20% of the course fee.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the ASA101 course?
Two days, typically 8 hours each day, totaling 16 hours of on‑water training.
Where does the course meet?
The course is based at Carillon Point Marina in Kirkland.
Do I need prior sailing experience?
No prior experience is required to enroll in the course.
Is certification included?
Yes — the price includes the ASA textbook, the ASA test and certification fees.
Should I tip the instructor?
Tipping is customary and typically ranges from 10% to 20% of the course fee.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-17T20:48:32.437Z
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Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.