ASA 114

[Reed]

I'm thinking of taking ASA 114, but up here in the northwest we don't have many Cats. People wish they'd get here, but it doesn't look like they will be that popular. Maybe the class is a bust for northwesterners?

[Pblais]

Have you checked the ASA web site? Even if your can't take in locally you could take it some place else, then when you get back other peole will hear about it.

[Reed]

I can take it locally in the San Juans, but that is the only outfit up here I know of that charter Cats. I guess I'm referring to the fact Cats arn't that popular up here, but I guess if I take what I can here, then go to the tropics I, no doubt, would have many to choose from. I could take 114 in the tropics, but it's at almost twice the cost as locally.
Thanks

[Pblais]

ASA 114 isn't the most popular course any place but it is important if Cats are what you are after.

[mikemr]

Hello, I am also from Seattle and I took my ASA 114 from Bluewater Sailing School in Ft. Lauderdale. It was a great trip and a good excuse to get away from that nasty Seattle winter weather .

[Reed]

Ft. Lauderdale could work for me.
I spent much time in that area and south of there.
I'd like to get a Cat in the Keys.
The "Shallows" of that area might not be so intimidating with a Cat.
Could tie up to any "Mango Grove Island" - nuff to choose from!
Thanks for the suggestion.

[Intentional Drifter]

Hi, Reed --

114 is taught at San Juan Sailing. My wife and I took the weeklong version last year (in August). The instructor is excellent and uses his own cat, a Manta 42. They were flexible in the course work and we combined it with Coastal Nav (although the ASA Coastal Nav book is awful) to make for a pretty full week. However, the Gulf Islands are very nice, we got some excellent sails, and, as you say, being close to home certainly reduces the cost.

As to cats not being popular in the NW, that has been our experience, too. However, more and more of them are appearing. We don't worry about that -- if a cat is your interest, then this is a good resource. San Juan Sailing did a good job in the provisioning, the boat (Ninja) is in great condition, and the captain/instructor is competent, patient, and a joy to be around -- even for a week.

ID

[Reed]

That's exactly the place I'm looking at.
Thanks

[S/V Elusive]

Moved to training forum.