About Us
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Jerry Gullekson, awarded ASA Outstanding Instructor of the Year for 2022. Jerry was selected as one of the top 25 ASA Instructors in a global pool of 2355 Instructors with active status last year. Check it out at Outstanding American Sailing Instructors (asa.com)
Who we are
All our instructors are U.S. Coast Guard Captains and ASA-certified.
Jerry Gullekson is the owner and chief instructor at Starboard Sailing. Jerry has decades of experience on the water and in the classroom, and he excels at inspiring students. At Starboard Sailing, we not only love sailing — we love teaching!
Why we’re here
We started Starboard Sailing for those of you who would like that little bit extra in sailing lessons. Jerry is a professional educator and has designed Starboard Sailing’s curriculum to that higher level of learning. More time at the helm, smaller classes, personalized lessons, all to make sure you are a capable and confident sailor at the end of your voyage.
Cancellation Policy
All fees are paid in full at the time of booking. You may cancel your class, up to 48 hours prior to the class start time, with an 18% cancellation fee to cover the cost of training materials, shipping and transactional costs. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation.
Your safety is always our first concern at Starboard Sailing. On the day of your sailing, if the captain determines the weather conditions are unsafe, that day’s class will be rescheduled. If the entire class is canceled, we will refund your fees.
If only one student is registered for a class, the class will still be held but the class day will be shortened.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the course fee?
At Starboard Sailing, almost everything for your class is included in the course fees. This includes the boat, instructor, textbooks, study materials, shipping, certifications, fuel, docking and mooring fees. Your only additional cost is for food and beverages you purchase for the liveaboard cruises.
How long is a typical class day?
The ASA 101 and/or 103 class day starts at 9am and ends at 4pm with an hour for lunch.
The liveaboard classes (ASA 104, 106 and 114), Day 1 will start at 4pm and go to about 7pm. The following days will have some variation with a 9 to 4 day as the goal.
How much time is spent on the water?
At least four hours per day are spent on the boat with about two hours for theory.
Will I sleep on the boat, or do I need a hotel?
You will need a local hotel if you cannot commute to the Basic Sailing/Coastal Cruising course (ASA 101 and/or 103). There are many fine accommodations in the area. We are happy to offer suggestions!
You will have your own cabin on the boat for the liveaboard classes (ASA 104, 106 and 114).
What should I wear for class?
It is always a bit cooler on the water than on land so a light coat should be in your sea bag. We sail rain or shine, so always bring rain gear and a hat. Boat shoes are best, but sneakers are fine for sailing.
Is there an age limit for the classes?
You can take any class if you are at least 18 years old. If you are at least 16, you can take Basic Sailing/Coastal Cruising (ASA 101/103) with a parent’s permission. Private instruction is available to all ages.
Do I have to take a test?
A multiple-choice or short answer test is required for American Sailing Association (ASA) certifications. This test is usually given the last day of your class. Your success is our goal, so we will work with you to make sure you understand all the sailing concepts needed.
Your sailing techniques will be evaluated as you master each of the required skills. You will become a competent, confident sailor.
What if it rains or the wind dies?
Your safety is always our first priority. If the weather is not safe for sailing, the captain will reschedule the on-the-water lesson and teach more on-shore course concepts. If it is just rain, we sail, so always have rain gear to wear.
With our extended classes, we will always have some days with wind and maybe some without. For those calm days, our courses include many learning objectives that do not require wind such as motoring, docking and anchoring.
Are there prerequisites for the courses?
There are no prerequisites for the beginning class, Basic Sailing/Coastal Cruising (ASA 101/103).
To be certified for the more advanced classes (ASA 104, 105, 106, 114), there are American Sailing prerequisites. Experienced sailors can demonstrate their skills and knowledge thru a certification “challenge” to bypass the prerequisites. Contact us for more information.
What happens if only one student registers for a class?
If you commit to taking the class, we commit to teaching the class. With the increase in time at the helm, the class day may be shortened to give you some well needed rest.
“Just wanted to share that we just came back from chartering our own boat in St. Thomas. We were so well prepared for everything we encountered thanks to your tutelage.
— Glenn R.