US SAILING

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between US SAILING and ASA?   How do I choose a sailing school?
What First Aid and CPR courses are accepted by US SAILING?   Where can I rent a boat?
How do I send information or contact US SAILING?   What level of US SAILING Membership do I need to attend an Instructor Course?
What is the minimum age for participation in US SAILING courses?    
What about insurance?
How do I become an approved US SAILING program?    
What is the difference between US SAILING and ASA?
Choosing a school offering US SAILING Certification ensures a professional, quality learning experience. US SAILING is a non-profit service organization, with a charter to "promote excellence" in sailing. It is the only National Governing Body of Sailing in the United States, representing our great country in all international matters regarding the sport of sailing. As the one national authority for sailing, US SAILING represents the sailors of the US at the International Sailing Federation (ISAF), the world authority for sailing. Like US SAILING, most national authorities have certification systems for pleasure sailing. US SAILING certifications are highly respected by ISAF member authorities and are recognized worldwide.

US SAILING has a strict set of guidelines regarding the proper type of vessel to be used at each level of certification. These guidelines ensure that basic skills are developed on stable, mid-sized sailboats which provide the highest confidence and competence levels for the beginning sailor. Unique to US SAILING, this standard ensures that not only the initial level of training is conducted on the right training platform, but also for each course thereafter, as skills are developed in the most complete curriculum of sailing education there is. The standards set for US SAILING member schools demand universal quality in:

1. Vessel type and condition
2. Facility function and safety
3. Faculty expertise in sailing knowledge, teaching skills and communication
4. Safety control
5. Assurance that all students meet the skill requirements outlined while enjoying a fun, educational experience.

US SAILING has a strict application and inspection process for schools to ensure they meet established standards. US SAILING requires much more than a business license, the appropriate level of insurance and certified instructors. The application process requires that risk management systems and proper classroom and vessel assets are in place. In addition, reviews of the curriculum and student standards are conducted to ensure each school is operating according to US SAILING’s standards of teaching and sailing methodologies. The US SAILING Certification System has a full time quality assurance program where every member school is critically reviewed on a rotating basis.

What First Aid and CPR courses are accepted by US SAILING?
Any First Aid and CPR course that is on the U.S. Coast Guard's approved list is accepted by US SAILING. You can view the list at the Coast Guard's website. To update your records, we need emailed, mailed or faxed copies of your cards or license.

How do I send information or contact US SAILING?
We can be reached at:
US SAILING
15 Maritime Dr.
PO Box 1260
Portsmouth, RI 02871
Phone 401-683-0800
Fax 401-683-0840
Email training@ussailing.org
For Coast Guard license, First Aid and CPR submissions, we need emailed, mailed or faxed copies of your cards or license.

What is the minimum age for participation in US SAILING courses?
Sailing Counselors: 14
Level 1 Instructors: 16
Level 2 Coaches: 18
Windsurfing Instructors: 16
Powerboat Instructors: 18
Basic Keelboat Instructors: 18
Instructor Trainers: recommended 24+
Learn to Sail Courses: no required minimum age

What about insurance?
US SAILING has partnered with insurance company Gowrie, Barden & Brett. A $1-million secondary insurance policy is included with Instructor Certification. Gowrie, Barden & Brett also provides insurance coverage for sailing programs, big boats, regattas, borrowed boats and one-design boats.

What level of US SAILING Membership do I need to attend an Instructor Course?
US SAILING Instructors maintain individual adult level membership. Family memberships are welcome, but only one certified instructor per family membership is permitted.

How do I choose a sailing school?
Please visit our online searchable database to find a place to learn to sail or drive a powerboat. For more detailed information on our Keelboat Sailing Certification System, visit our Keelboat website at www.sailingcertification.com.

Where can I rent a boat?
Please visit our online searchable database to find places to rent sailboats or powerboats.

How do I become an approved US SAILING program?
Visit our Keelboat Program website, www.sailingcertification.com, for a checklist of requirements and an application to become a US SAILING approved Keelboat Program.