InFlow Journal · American Sailing
Why we teach American Sailing at InFlow
A clear starting point, practical skills and room to grow. Here’s why American Sailing fits the way we teach on Howe Sound.
Learning to sail starts with a few questions. Where do I begin? What will I actually learn? And what can I do once the course is over?
At InFlow, we want those answers to be clear. We teach American Sailing courses because the programme gives our customers a defined starting point and a framework for developing their skills. On Howe Sound, we turn that framework into time at the helm, conversations with your instructor and practical experience working with a crew.
You can see what you’re working towards
American Sailing publishes standards for each course. That means you can look beyond the course name and understand the skills it covers.
ASA 101 introduces the essentials of keelboat sailing. ASA 102 builds on that foundation, with more attention to boat handling, sail trim and working effectively together. The difference matters: your course should meet you where you are now.
The learning has to work on the water
Certification involves demonstrating practical skills and completing a written assessment. Simply attending a course does not automatically earn the certificate.
We think that is a useful approach. There is a difference between recognising a term in a book and knowing how to apply it while the boat is moving. Your instructor helps connect the two and identify what needs more practice.
You have room to keep growing
Your first course does not have to decide your whole sailing future. You might want to be a more capable crew member, enjoy local sailing or eventually plan a cruising holiday.
American Sailing’s wider programme includes coastal cruising and bareboat cruising courses. That gives you further learning options as your interests develop. Those courses are part of the wider ASA pathway; the courses listed on our InFlow ASA page are ASA 101 and ASA 102.
What about chartering abroad?
A first sailing certificate is a beginning, not a universal charter pass. American Sailing’s International Proficiency Certificate requires at least ASA 101, 103 and 104. Your charter operator and destination may have additional requirements, so check those directly before booking a trip.
The useful goal is to build both your training and your experience for the sailing you want to do.
Choose your next step
New to sailing? Our two-day ASA 101 course combines classroom learning with time on the water. Already completed ASA 101? ASA 102 is an opportunity to refine your handling and trim.
If you would like a shorter introduction first, a Sailing Social is a welcoming way to try it. If you need focused practice, talk to us about private coaching.
Explore InFlow’s ASA courses or tell us about your sailing goals. We’ll help you find a starting point that makes sense for you.