| Frequently Asked Questions |
Why Charleston Sailing School?
Charleston Sailing School is the only operation in South Carolina offering ASA certifications, Bareboat Charters, and Private instruction. Our classes are smaller, our yachts are bigger and newer than our competition, and our classes are a fraction of the cost. We offer the opportunity to bareboat charter on liveaboard yachts in familiar waters after completing the 104 class. Feel free to compare our prices and services offered with any of our competition.
What is the ASA?
The American Sailing Association is an association of sailors, professional sailing instructors, sailing schools and charter companies. The American Sailing Association is dedicated to promoting safe recreational sailing in the United States by administering an internationally recognized education system.
How many students will be on the boat?
For individual classes we book up to four students. For liveaboard cruises we prefer no more than two students unless within one family.
What amenities does City Marina provide?
Wireless internet is provided throughout the marina. There is a restaurant/bar, convenience store, and wine/abc store on the premises. A courtesy shuttle is available that will drop off and pick up at any location downtown .The bathhouse facilities are immaculate. City Marina was voted Marina of the Year in 2006.
Where do we go?
We sail out of Charleston City Marina on the Ashley River. The protected waters of Charleston Harbor offer great sailing opportunities for daysailing. On the longer courses we go north or south toward Georgetown or Kiawah Island.
What other charges are there?
Our price is all-inclusive. Not included are any dinners or dockage fees, incurred as a result of your desire to overnight in a marina or eat at a restaurant while on shore. Parking at the marina is not included.
What kind of food is provided?
Good food is a part of the program. We work very hard to make sure you are not disappointed. Provisioning is done based on an agreed upon menu.
Is alcohol allowed?
Drinking is not permitted during class hours. Alcohol is not provided but is allowed onboard for liveaboard students
Are accommodations provided?
Accommodations are provided on board for only the liveaboard programs and Bareboat Chartering course. In the five day program you are provided accommodations onboard for four nights. The seven day program includes 6 nights onboard. The 104 Bareboat Chartering class includes one night at anchor.
What is a typical day? Do we get some free time?
On our individual courses, lessons and drills run from 9:30am to 5:30pm with some adjustments made for weather and tides. Evenings are dedicated to self-study or new material presentations. On our extended programs we do most everything on the boat. Early mornings can be used for the presentation of new material or test preparation. The majority of the day is spent underway with the emphasis on sailing skills and drills. We do break for lunch either at anchor or eating while under way. Expect to drop anchor or return to the marina in late afternoon to early evening. Late evenings are yours to relax, review the day's lessons, or chat with your fellow students.
What happens if there is a storm or bad weather while I'm on the class?
Due to the nature of sailing and the weather, we do not cancel classes nor are we able to provide refunds for bad weather. If there is a named storm during your class rescheduling is allowed.
Do I need to study before the class starts?
Yes, course material is included in the course fee and is mailed to you upon registration. A thorough study of the material in advance is required to get the most out of the course.
What airport should I fly into?
Charleston International Airport is close to the marina. From there you can take the taxi to Downtown Charleston.
What kind of things do I need to bring on my sailing cruise?
1. Clothing appropriate for the season.
2. Lightweight long sleeve shirt for sun protection.
3. Jeans or pair of long pants for shore side expeditions.
4. Sweatshirt or warm pullover for cool nights.
5. White soled shoes or deck shoes
6. Foul weather gear (i.e. rain gear)
7. Sunscreen and Bug Spray
8. Hats and sunglasses with a strap
9. Sailing gloves
10. Personal toiletries, such as soap, shampoo, toothbrush, etc.
11. ASA Textbooks, ASA logbook, notebook, pencils, and navigation tools
12. Camera/Video Camera and Film
13. Dramamine, Bonine or other motion sickness medication
14. Personal medications (vessels are equipped with standard first aid kits).
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