- LENGTH: 2-Days
- LOCATION: Mooloolaba
- CREW SIZE: 1-4
ASA 101 - Beginner Learn to Sail
Gain American Sailing certifications while enjoying everything the Sunshine Coast Queensland has to offer.

AGE: 16-99

COURSE DIFFICULTY

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
Overview
Ahoy there, future sailor! Ready to chart a course for adventure and gain the foundational skills to confidently command a sailboat? Our ASA 101 Basic Keelboat Sailing course, located right here in beautiful Mooloolaba, Queensland, provides the essential knowledge and hands-on experience to safely and enjoyably navigate the world of sailing. Learn fundamental sailing terminology, basic boat handling, sail trim, and essential safety procedures under the guidance of certified instructors. Start your sailing journey today and unlock a lifetime of nautical exploration!
Highlights
Master Basic Sailing Terminology:
You’ll learn the language of sailing, understanding the names and functions of essential boat parts.
Understand Points of Sail:
You’ll gain practical knowledge of how a sailboat moves in relation to the wind, enabling you to navigate effectively.
Learn Essential Sail Trim:
You’ll acquire the skills to adjust sails for optimal performance, maximizing your boat’s efficiency.
Practice Fundamental Boat Handling:
You’ll develop the ability to steer and maneuver a keelboat safely in calm conditions.
Grasp Core Seamanship and Safety:
You’ll learn critical safety procedures and basic navigation rules to ensure a secure sailing experience.
ASA 101
Part 1-
Exerpienced Skippers
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Books & Online Course Included
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6-month Membership Included
What is included with my course?
It is a great question, and we have listed a few items. This list in not comprehensive, so do not hesitate to reach out.
We have created a list of things that will help you prepare for your upcoming course. Although not everything is mandatory for the day, there are many items that are highly recommended. You can see those items here. Again, do not hestitate to reach out with any questions.

What is Included
- American Sailing Qualified Instructors
- Study Made Easey Textbook
- Fundamentals Online Course
- Logbook
- All Safety Equipment
- Length of Practice Rope
- UPF 50+ Sunscreen
- Water
What is NOT Included
- Transportation To and From the Course
- Lunch & Snacks
- Sailing Clothes
Numbers Speak For Themselves!
WHY CHOOSE AUSSIE SAILING CO?
With The Experience Comes Excellence.
Low Student / Instructor Ratio
We have the lowest student to instructor ratio in Queensland. What does this mean for you? This means more room on the boat, no sharing beds, and more time for instruction. You are getting more training for the money than any other school.
Instructors Dual RYA/ASA Certified
Our instructors are not only experienced sailors but also hold dual certifications from both Amreican Sailing and RYA, the two largest sail training organizations in the world. You can rest assured knowing that you will be learning from highly qualified instructors.
Queensland's Premier Catamaran Sail Training
We are the leading catamaran training center in Queensland, offering more courses on catamaran than anyone else. If you want to buy, charter, or sail a catamaran, we are the school that will help you increase your abilities so you can maximize your adventure.
You Become Part of Our Community
We have a strong sailing community of past and current students. Many have boats that love to have crew aboard for a daily, weekend, or somethings longer trips. We love to get together and have BBQ’s, concerts, and flotillas. What an amazing community you could be a part of, you will be welcomed with open arms.
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EXCELLENT Based on 99 reviews AP Srinivasan2025-02-20Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dave and Luke were amazing teachers! They were patient and talked us through everything while still allowing us to make mistakes and learn. My wife and I had an amazing weekend learning to sail and are signing up for the next level. It’s a great spot as well with lovely beaches around. Would highly recommend 😄 Scott Halfpenny2024-11-18Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I did my RYA coastal skipper ticket with these guys and they were awesome. Great boats, great instruction. A really positive , supportive team. I’ll be back ! Highly recommended. Christopher Vertullo2024-10-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Really helpful and informative. Very nice people. Anne B2024-06-13Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This school made my sailing dreams come true! I came from Canada to Australia to complete my RYA Competent Crew and Day Skipper courses with Sunshine Sailing. Dave and Rachel were so helpful with organizing my courses, and making sure I completed my course requirements before I flew home. All of the training vessels are in great condition, and the instructors were very knowledgeable, personable and patient. I have to add that the sailing areas are absolutely gorgeous around Mooloolaba, and the Whitsunday islands. My first time ever sailing was with Sunshine Sailing, and the notable efforts of the staff made my experience something I’ll treasure for a lifetime. This school cares about their students achieving their goals, and will go above and beyond to make it happen. Thank you SSA team for making me a sailor! I highly recommend this school for anyone looking to get out on the water! Nigel Hall2024-05-23Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We did our Day Skipper through SSA and really enjoyed the experience. Yachts are in good order, Dave and Rachel are super helpful and the coaches knowledgeable and great at what they do. If you plan to start sailing, buy a boat or just charter one , this course is an essential as it gets you excellent experience, saves on insurance and can really help in that buy decision on a yacht which could save you thousands. Gail Stuart2024-03-21Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Went sailing with these guys. Can’t praise them enough. Incredibly helpful, friendly and accommodating. Unfortunately I felt a little sea sick and they were totally understanding, with lots of helpful tips. I was only on a one day sail, but they were keen to get me learning asap. Give them a try, I’m sure you won’t regret it! Donna Pascoe2024-01-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Last month we completed our Competent Crew onboard Giddy Up out of Newport. Our Captain, Peter, was excellent in guiding us through our course and showed excellent knowledge of sailing and of Moreton Bay. We had the added advantage of welcoming Will onboard and he was equally helpful and answered any questions the crew had. We completed two night sails and a pilotage up the Brisbane River which was amazing. Our growth and confidence over the 5 days has encouraged us to get ready for our Day Skipper Course. Thanks to Rachael and Dave for facilitating and going above and beyond to ensure our experience was a great one! tony watts2023-12-07Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What an experience! We did the competent crew course with Pete and had an absolute blast.. The boat was great to learn on very comfortable and Pete was a phenomenal instructor and a bottomless well of knowledge.. I highly recommend anyone wanting go from absolute novice ( as I am) to feeling useful on a boat to give this course a go.. Clint Wright2023-11-19Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had our first learn to sail experience on the weekend with our instructor Richard off the Fraser Coast. Was such a great taste of sailing and Richard was an awesome and patient teacher with a real passion for sharing his love of sailing. A really fun weekend and has left us wanting to learn everything we can and get right into the sailing experience. Highly recommend these guys. Jeffrey Brewer2023-10-13Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Whales, whales and then more whales. Dugongs thats right dugongs, and of course dolphins, a turtle, a hammerhead shark and a small Ray. So we did of 5 day sailing course (passed) and these where just a few things we saw (lucky us) . Instructor and the team at the school where excellent. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the 5days at sea. See you next week when we do our day skipper. Cheers Jeff
Frequently Asked Questions
The course generally starts at 8:30 AM and will finish around 3:30-4:00 PM. You will receive an email before your course confirming times and meeting locations.
Essentials:
- Soft-soled shoes: Boat shoes or sneakers that won’t mark the deck. Avoid black soles. (we love Dunlop Volleys from Big W if you need a suggestion)
- Quick-drying clothes: Layers are key! Think shirts, shorts/trousers, and a fleece. Avoid cotton.
- Waterproof jacket: Even if it’s sunny, spray can be unpredictable. (check the weather)
- Hat: Wide-brimmed for sun protection.
- Sunglasses: With a strap to keep them secure.
- Sunscreen: SPF 50. Reapply often!Lunch
- Lunch: We will return to the marina each day, so you can bring a lunch or there are places to eat around the marina.
Optional but Recommended:
- Sailing gloves: Protect your hands, especially when handling lines.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated.
- Snacks: Keep your energy up.
- Seasickness medication: If you’re prone to it.
- Waterproof bag: To protect your valuables. We do have room on the boat for a daypack or small bag.
Important Notes:
- Check the weather: Dress accordingly.
- Ask your instructor: When in doubt, just give us a call and we can help
- Leave valuables at home: The boat can be a wet environment.
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