Resources
The official learn-to-sail manual of the American Sailing Association and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Helpful for ASA Basic Coastal Cruising (103), Bareboat Charter (104) and Instructor Qualification 201, 203, 204.
The official ASA textbook for Bareboat Cruising (104): an all-in-one reference from passage planning to the technical side of running a charter boat.
The official ASA textbook for Cruising Catamaran (114): how a cat differs from a monohull under sail, under power and at the dock.
A classic text, now in its 69th Edition.
The complete Inland and International Navigation Rules as published by the United States Coast Guard. Free to read or download from the Coast Guard Navigation Center; printed editions are on Amazon.
Great explanations along with a complete copy of the racing rules. The current edition covers the 2025–2028 rules; the older Paul Elvstrom Explains the Racing Rules of Sailing is out of print.
Buddy Melges shares winning tips on racing.
US Sailing developed this book in partnership with the American Red Cross to help you become a more confident and accomplished sailor. Out of print, but easy to find used.
The US Sailing certification series book on basic keelboat sailing, corresponding to the ASA 101 certification.
The US Sailing certification series book on basic cruising, corresponding to the ASA 103 certification.
The US Sailing certification series book on coastal navigation, corresponding to the ASA 105 certification.
The US Sailing certification series book on bareboat cruising, corresponding to the ASA 104 certification.
