The ASA 116 Dinghy and Outboard Endorsement offers practical training in handling and maintaining dinghies and their outboard motors. You'll become familiar with essential terminology, learn safe operating procedures, and develop the skills to maneuver a dinghy in various situations. The course covers all aspects of dinghy use, from launching and boarding to securing your dinghy at a busy dock or yacht. You'll practice key techniques such as safe docking, emergency engine troubleshooting, and deploying anchors. Additionally, the endorsement includes crucial care and maintenance skills, enabling you to keep your dinghy and outboard in excellent condition. This course will build your confidence and competence in all areas of dinghy operation, preparing you for any on-water scenario.
The Going Ashore Made Easy - the Essential Dinghy & Outboard Manual by Lisa and Andy Batchelor textbook is included with your purchase of this course and will be mailed to you. If you wish to pick up your textbook in person or if you sign up less than a week from your course, please contact our office. Optionally, you may purchase the Going Ashore Made Easy book directly from ASA. Advance study of your textbook will help you prepare for the multiple-choice examination to receive your ASA 116, Dinghy & Outboard Endorsement certification.
This course is available at both our Berkeley and Sausalito locations.
When you successfully complete the ASA 116 course at one of our Modern Sailing locations, you will be eligible to rent a dinghy and outboard motor for your Modern Sailing charter. View our Dinghy & Outboard Rental Program webpage.
Registration & Next Steps
There are three ways to sign up for this course - by phone (415) 331-8250, email, or by clicking the link below.
View ASA 116 Schedule & Sign Up
Note on Course Prerequisite Recency:
- If you have completed ASA 104 within the past 3 years, you are ready to enroll.
- If you completed ASA 104 more than 3 years ago, and have sailed since but not with Modern Sailing, please submit a recent Sailing Resume.
- If it has been more than 3 years since you were last on the water, you can fulfill the recency requirement by booking an ASA 111-104 Sailing Review. Please contact our team to discuss scheduling and your path to ASA 116.



