Is there a difference between US Sailing and ASA schools?

During the Annapolis Boat Show, we spoke with US Sailings Marketing Director, Josh Toso, about this frequently asked question. Here’s part of our discussion with Josh regarding US Sailing and ASA certifications.
#WindyWednesday #LearnToSail #OffshoreSailingSchool

[@oday3514]

I have taught BOTH ASA and US/Sailing courses. Neither one is "better" than the other. In my experience from teaching at several schools the focus of US/Sailing Basic Keel Boat is more on performance/sail trim, while the focus of ASA 101 is more on basic boat handling. My students with either curriculua have learned how to competently handle a sailboat.

[@dougdekuiper3194]

O'day 35 thanks for the input.

[@Lew114]

I started with ASA. Sounds like I’ll have to stay with ASA. I don’t have the time and money to retake all the classes I’ve already had. I’m disappointed because there’s a US Sailing school that would be really convenient. I think I’ll call them and see what the “testing out “ process entails.

[@mrunning10]

These course will teach you to sail, yes very good stuff, highly recommended. BUT, Blah Blah Blah. Want counts is time on the water as skipper. Period. There is no such thing as a bareboat "certification." Your experience in your logbook will either let you rent a boat or not. The charter company wants to see how much time you have as skipper. There is a great amount of lying and resume inflation on the charter company qualification forms; no time as skipper? then you're going to have to hire one.