To become a sailing instructor in the USA, follow these steps, focusing on certifications from recognized organizations and gaining relevant experience:
1. Learn to Sail and Gain Experience
Build Sailing Experience: Start by learning to sail through local sailing schools or clubs. Gain proficiency in various types of boats, such as dinghies and keelboats.
Practice in Diverse Conditions: Build your experience in different sailing environments, including lakes, rivers, and coastal areas.
2. Choose a Certification Path
In the USA, two primary organizations offer widely recognized sailing instructor certifications:
American Sailing Association (ASA): Provides a structured certification pathway with multiple levels, including instructor certifications.
US Sailing: Offers a variety of instructor training programs for dinghy and keelboat sailing.
Key Difference: ASA is often used in recreational sailing schools, while US Sailing is more involved with racing and competitive sailing programs, but both are recognized nationally.
3. Meet the Prerequisites
Both ASA and US Sailing have specific requirements before you can enroll in an instructor training course:
Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old for most certifications.
Previous Sailing Certification: You’ll need a certain level of certification, such as ASA 104 (Bareboat Cruising) or equivalent experience.
First Aid and CPR Certification: Valid first aid and CPR certification is typically required.
Sailing Experience: Documented experience, usually in different wind and sea conditions, may be required.
4. Complete Instructor Training
ASA Instructor Course: You’ll need to attend an Instructor Qualification Clinic (IQC), which includes teaching techniques, safety procedures, and testing your sailing knowledge and practical skills.
US Sailing Instructor Course: US Sailing offers different instructor tracks, such as Basic Keelboat Instructor or Small Boat Instructor. You’ll attend a hands-on course where you’ll be assessed on your ability to teach and sail.
5. Pass the Assessment
Both ASA and US Sailing require you to pass a written and practical exam at the end of the instructor training. This includes demonstrating proficiency in teaching methods, sailing techniques, and safety management.
6. Obtain Additional Certifications (Optional)
Depending on the type of sailing you want to teach, you might want to pursue additional certifications:
Advanced Instructor Endorsements: If you wish to teach advanced courses like navigation, night sailing, or performance sailing.
Racing Instructor Certification: For those interested in teaching competitive sailing.
7. Find Employment as a Sailing Instructor
Sailing Schools: Work at ASA or US Sailing-affiliated schools.
Resorts and Camps: Many resorts and summer camps offer seasonal employment for sailing instructors.
Private Instruction: Offer private lessons, either independently or through yacht clubs.
8. Maintain Certification
Revalidation: Instructor certifications often need revalidation every few years, involving refresher courses or practical assessments to ensure skills and teaching methods are up to date.
Key Organizations:
American Sailing Association (ASA)
US Sailing
Both organizations provide comprehensive training and are recognized across the USA, allowing instructors to teach at various sailing schools, clubs, and programs.
