 |
|---|
WE KNOW WHAT YOUR GOAL IS
Confidence First. Captain Second.
The short answer: No, you do not need a license to start sailing with FARO SAILING.
As a FARO Subscriber or FOP Affiliate, you are always operating under a recreational or bareboat framework, which means no commercial license is required.
But we go further — we support your growth with optional training, coaching, and hands-on sailing experiences so you can gain confidence, skills, and certifications at your own pace.
Learn to Sail. Grow with Support.
Whether you're new to sailing or looking to level up, FARO SAILING provides:
✅ Onboard orientation and coaching
✅ Opportunities to build sea miles as a crew member or helm
✅ Guidance toward the obtention of the required certifications by W Sailing, like ASA 101 /103
✅ Full support to help you feel comfortable as the captain of your own F29 Yacht
We empower you to sail confidently — no prior license required.
ASA Certification & Licenses:
Optional at First — what you need to progress
ASA Certification & Licenses:
You don’t need any license or certification to start sailing or to become a FARO SAILING Subscriber or FOP Affiliate. Our program is designed to let you enjoy the lifestyle right away, crew with others, and build experience naturally — without pressure.
But as you fall in love with sailing and begin to visualize yourself confidently at the helm of your own F29 yacht, gaining more control and independence becomes part of the journey.
That’s where certifications like ASA 101 (Basic Keelboat) and ASA 103 (Coastal Cruising) come into play. While not required to start, they become highly necessary as you progress. These courses help you:
Take full command of your yacht with safety and confidence
Improve your seamanship and navigation skills
Unlock opportunities for solo or family sailing
Lay the groundwork for future licenses or insurance benefits
At FARO SAILING, we’ll help you get there — with training, mentoring, and access to the right learning pathways, at your own pace.
Start without a license. Grow with confidence. Master the helm when you’re ready.
Licensing Rules: The Bigger Picture
To help you understand how licensing works beyond FARO SAILING, here’s how the U.S. Coast Guard defines vessel use on U.S.-flagged yachts:
1) Recreational Vessel
No payment is involved. No passenger limit. No license required.
This is how FARO SAILING Subscribers operate when using the fleet yachts for personal recreational use.
2) Bareboat Charter Vessel (No Crew Provided)
-
The boat is leased or under membership to one or more individuals, who take full command
-
No licensed captain required if FARO Sailing/vessel owner isn’t providing crew
-
The charterer (the W member) is considered the legal operator of the vessel
-
All control, responsibility, and enjoyment lie with members
⚠️ Note: Members cannot charge other members or member guests or operate commercially without a U.S. Coast Guard License.