Beginner Help - ASA vs Club Lesson?

[Charlie M]

Hello all!
After years of dreaming, I've decided to get into sailing. And right now that's all I know for sure!

I'm on the upper Texas coast and have been looking at lessons. Can anyone provide an opinion or thoughts on paying for a ASA course through a instructor vs taking a class from a local yacht club? Is the ASA necessary to rent a boat for a day? Should I consider location of the training, meaning potentially where I can sail? Thanks all!

[Pete17C]

If you're new to sailing, look for a school or club that will let you take out their boats after taking their class. Keeping it as close to home as possible so you'll get out on the water more often.

Log all your courses and sailing time. You'll use this info to 'convince' the charter companies to let you take out their boats, though expect to take a 'check sail' when dealing with a new to you charter company.

[S/V Illusion]

There are good and bad sailing instructors regardless of the source. Despite the claims, you don’t need some company label course to charter; all you need is the ability to demonstrate competence.

[Checkswrecks]

I took the ASA 101 and 103 courses and thoroughly enjoyed them. I sailed on a lake as a kid and rented small boats each summer so the classes were not really needed. But with 3 students on a boat and rotating the instructors, we got a number of perspectives, learned the right ways to do things, and developed a friendship. The three of us agreed that the classes were worth the price and the two of us in this area have stayed in touch.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Charlie.