ASA 118 Docking Endorsement is a hands-on course that combines essential docking theory with repeated practice aboard an auxiliary-powered sailboat.

You’ll learn how the boat responds to its engine, rudder, propeller, wind, and current, then apply that knowledge while practicing docking, casting off, backing, turning, and maneuvering within busy harbors and narrow fairways.

The goal is to make docking a planned, controlled maneuver rather than the part of your sailing day that you dread. Upon successful completion, you’ll be better prepared to anticipate how the boat will respond, communicate with your crew, adjust when conditions change, and dock with greater confidence and precision.

What You’ll Learn

ASA 118 develops the knowledge and practical skills needed to safely maneuver and dock an auxiliary-powered sailboat, including:

• Understanding hull shape, keel configuration, rudders, and windage
• Identifying the boat’s pivot point
• Using the engine, transmission, throttle, and steering controls
• Understanding prop wash, prop blast, and prop walk
• Developing and maintaining rudder authority
• Maneuvering safely in reverse
• Evaluating the effects of wind and current
• Preparing a docking and casting-off plan
• Assigning and communicating crew responsibilities
• Selecting and positioning dock lines and fenders
• Using boat hooks safely
• Using spring lines to dock, undock, and control the vessel
• Approaching fixed and floating docks
• Making controlled stops alongside a dock or object
• Backing in a straight line and stopping under control
• Turning the boat within a narrow fairway or confined area
• Docking bow-first or stern-first in a slip
• Docking with wind blowing toward or away from the dock
• Using wind and prop walk to your advantage
• Planning an emergency abort option
• Docking or securing the boat following an engine failure
• Safely coiling, handling, and heaving dock lines
• Essential docking knots and their proper uses
• Clear communication between the skipper and crew

The course emphasizes repetition so students can reinforce the techniques, understand how adjustments affect the maneuver, and become more comfortable responding when the original docking plan needs to change.

Prerequisites

Students should hold ASA 103 Coastal Cruising or have equivalent experience handling an auxiliary-powered sailboat.

Participants should understand basic engine and steering controls, line handling, and crew communication.

Both newer and experienced sailors can benefit from the concentrated practice, provided they arrive with the foundational experience needed to safely participate in the maneuvers.

What’s Included

Course tuition includes:

• Hands-on ASA 118: Docking Endorsement instruction
• Docking and maneuvering theory
• Repeated docking, casting-off, and confined-space maneuvering practice
• ASA 118 textbook and course materials
• ASA 118 knowledge and practical skills assessments
• ASA 118 endorsement upon successful completion
• Instruction from professional USCG-licensed captains
• Use of the sailboat and required docking equipment

Format:

This is a hands-on, on-the-water, one-day course from 9:00am – 4:00pm

Course Tuition

$697.00 per person

Stop fearing the end of the sailing day. Build the skills to approach the dock with a plan, communicate clearly with your crew, and bring the boat in with confidence.