Frequently Asked Questions for the Virgin Islands Courses

Why take an ASA course?
To confirm your confidence as a trained sailor backed by a internationally recognized certification.

Is an ASA certification required to Charter a boat?
An ASA certification proves a high level of competency to the charter companies. They may wish to see a resume of past boating experience and this is where your logbook comes in handy. Any boating experience will be helpful.

What type of boat will I be sailing?
You will be aboard one of our blue water cruising boats. Please call for details.

Where will we go?
We will visit St. John, Little St. James and St. Thomas in the USVI. We also may go to the BVI depending on the ASA course and number of days out.

Are tips required for the Captains?
Tipping in the Caribbean is customary for good service and usually runs 15-20% of the course cost.

What is included in the course fees?

ASA books

Instructor fees

Accomodations aboard

Docking at our slip in American Yacht Harbor (AYH)

Water for the boat tanks

What is not included in the course fees?

Travel expenses

Provisioning for all meals on board

Meals off the boat

Alcoholic beverages and ice

Gratuities to the instructor

Mooring fees - $15 to $25 per night; free if we anchor

Docking at a slip outside of AYH

Dinghy gas and diesel fuel for the boat

How many students are in a typical class?
NYSS classes are usually comprised of 2 to 3 students in the Virgin Islands depending on the boat used.

What should I bring with me?
Only what you can fit into a small soft duffel bag that can be folded and stored.

Shorts & T-shirts

Swimwear

A light rain jacket

Sunscreen

Personal toiletries

Prescription snorkel masks

ASA Books and Logbook

Will I have time to go snorkeling and swimming?
Absolutely, this is one of the main benefits for sailing these beautiful islands. Snorkel gear is not provided but can be rented from the Red Hook Dive Shop very reasonably. We recommend bringing prescription masks with you.

What will the weather typically be?
It is almost always sunny and beautiful with temperatures in the mid 80s during the day and the mid 70s at night. Isolated showers can pop up briefly for only a few minutes. The winds are commonly out of the east at 12-17 knots.

How do I get to the boat from the airport?
Go to the taxi dispatcher at STT airport and tell them you are going to American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook (fare is about $18 per person). Ask the driver to drop you off at the Marina Office (open 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM). The boat is located in the marina and you will be notified of the location. Call us, it is still the USA, at 914-235-6052.

Will I have my own bed or cabin?
Each student is guaranteed a berth, not a private cabin. Couples only will share a double berth.

What type of bathroom is on board?
The bathroom is called the Head on a boat and is manually operated and private.

What is provided on the boat?

Bedding linens and pillows

Towels

Galleyware

BBQ grille

Insect repellant

Storage for personal items

How should I prepare for the class?
Read the books and work through all the review questions before you arrive. Read the ASA standards for the courses you will be taking. The standards are listed in the ASA logbook, on the NYSS website and on the ASA website.

Please call 914-235-6052 if you have any questions.

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