Coastal Navigation Standard (ASA 105)
This Course includes the Coastal Navigation Test and Certification. This class is a three-day course held once a month on the first Friday of each month, from 5-8pm on Friday and 9:30am- 4:30pm Saturday/Sunday.
DESCRIPTION: After taking this classroom-oriented course, you will be able to apply the navigational theory and practices you have learned to ensure the safe navigation of a sailing vessel in coastal and inland waters. In-water coastal navigation skills elements are contained in the Basic Coastal Cruising, Bareboat Cruising, and Advanced Coastal Cruising Standards, with progressively increasing levels of detail.
COURSE OUTLINE:
Knowledge:
- Explain the chart symbols and conventions on U.S. nautical charts in accordance with the terminology of Chart #1
- Identify a source of official U.S. Coast Guard navigation publications.
- Describe the publications required for prudent navigation in a local area including:
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- Large-scale charts and Chart #1
- Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats
- USCG Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook
- State small vessel regulations
- Local rules and regulations, if applicable
- Local cruising guides
- Tide and current tables (paper or electronic)
- List of lights, buoys, and fog signals
- Describe the instruments required for prudent navigation in a local area including:
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- Steering compass and deviation table
- Handbearing compass and/or pelorus
- Binoculars
- Protractor or parallel rule
- Depth sounder or leadline
- Pencil, eraser, and notebook
- Dividers
- Chronometer
- Log/knot meter
- Describe the purpose and example contents of a “Notice to Mariners.”
- Explain the terms and characteristics used for lighted navigation aids.
- Explain the significance of shapes, colors, and lights used in the U.S. Aids to Navigation (ATON) system.
Skills:
- Use the tide and current tables to find:
- Times and heights of tides at reference and secondary ports.
- Direction and rate of current at referenced and secondary stations
- Convert courses and bearings between true, magnetic and compass.
- Check compass deviation by a transit bearing or other means.
- Plot a dead reckoning position on a chart using speed, time and course to steer.
- Allow for the effect of current and leeway to plot an estimated position.
- Determine a course to steer which takes into account known current and leeway.
- Determine current given course steered, speed, and two observed positions.
- Plot a chart position of terrestrial objects using:
- Two or more bearings on different objects taken simultaneously.
- Bearings at different times (e.g., a running fix).
- One bearing and a transit range.
- One distance (e.g., a sounding or dipping a light) and one bearing.
- Chart a course of at least 20 miles and three-course changes using the above skills.
Optional Certification Package:
ASA 105 Exam: $30.00
*Please note that we need at least 3 students signed up to confirm a class. Private instruction is available, please call our office at 831-423-7245 to discuss options. Students must be at least 18 years old or must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Class Format: Friday 5:00pm-8:00pm & Saturday/ Sunday 9:30am-4:30pm. Saturday 9:30pm-12:30pm in the classroom. Saturday afternoon you will be out on the water to put your navigations skills to the test. Sunday morning we will hold an in-classroom review and the afternoon will be reserved for taking your ASA105 Exam.
Prerequisite: ASA 104 Bareboat Chartering
REQUIRED COURSE MATERIALS (not included in the cost of the class):
Weems & Plath 317 Basic Navigation Set
The Course Manuel, Workbook Solutions and DVD set can be purchased on ASA’s Website.