Previous Class < BK1 > Next Class
BK1 - Intro to Sailing
2-Day Competent Crew Class
Who is the course for?
The BK1 (Basic Keelboat 1) course is ideal for beginners, those who have never taken a formal sailing class or who have only limited on-the-water experience. It’s designed for anyone looking to build a solid foundation in sailing, whether you’re pursuing weekend sailing or dreaming of extended adventures under sail.
This two-day course includes both classroom material and hands-on training, and also prepares participants to take the California Boater Card exam, now required for operating a boat in California.
2 Full Days
Note: BK1 is designed for beginners with little or no experience. If you have prior sailing experience, ASA 101 may be a better fit. Not sure yet? Try our 1 day sailing experience before committing to a full course.
What You Will Learn
-
The fundamentals of how sailboats work and what makes them move
-
How to be a helpful and reliable crew member on board
-
Basic sailing terms and theory to help you understand and speak the language of sailing
-
Essential safety practices for being on the water
-
Three key sailing knots: the Bowline, Cleat Hitch, and Lark’s Head
By the end of the BK1 course, you’ll have hands-on sailing experience and the confidence to sail with friends or family, or take the next step with ASA 101: Basic Keelboat.
Prep / Recommended:
Read first 4 chapters of ASA 101 Sailing Made Easy textbook
Prerequisites:
1x One Day Sailing Experience (get $50 discount for BK1 sign up)
OR
1x any practice sail (half or full day)
What's Included
BK1 Multiple Choice Test
After successfully demonstrating 100% of the required on-the-water skills, you’ll take a written exam, which requires a minimum score of 85% to pass.
If you do not pass either the on-the-water or written evaluations, you’ll be invited to repeat the necessary portions.
Life Jacket and Safety Equipment
We loan you a personal flotation device (PFD), also known as a lifejacket, along with other safety equipment. PFDs must be worn at all times when outside the cabin while the boat is underway. For your safety, put it on before the boat starts moving, especially when departing from or returning to the dock.
What to Expect
Discover the exhilaration of gliding across the water, harnessing the power of the wind, and mastering the art of sailing. Gain confidence as you navigate the open waters, hoist the sails, and steer your vessel with precision.
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking coastal scenery, feel the gentle spray on your face, and embrace the freedom of the sea.
Schedule & Crew Information:
-
Meeting Location: Afterguard Sailing Academy, 1285 Embarcadero, Oakland, CA 94606
-
Course Duration: Three-day weekend course, with a lecture on Friday from 6pm to 8pm. Saturday and Sunday's class from 9:30am to 4:30pm is spend sailing on the water.
-
Exam: The written exam takes place at the end of the second day of class. Students must demonstrate proficiency in hands-on skills before being permitted to sit for the written test.
-
Crew Limit: Maximum of four students per boat with one instructor.
What Boats are Used:
In this course, you will be learning to sail on one of our Ranger 23s, unless there is special need for a larger vessel. We have 5 Ranger 23s with outboard engines and 2 Cal 2-25s with inboard engines.
Visit our FAQs for more information on what to expect.