103 Textbook in the Works

We are currently in the throes of designing the next new ASA textbook–an accompaniment to the ASA 103 Basic Coastal Cruising course. Last week, the team flew out to Bristol, Rhode Island, for a photo shoot with world-renowned sailing photographer Billy Black. Prolific cruising writer Jeremy McGeary took care to coordinate the shoot to match the book’s text. During the first couple days scheduled, the weather refused to cooperate: constant rain and winds whipping at 30 knots does not make a great setting for a photo shoot. But just when they had been almost washed out by the rain, ASA Instructor Dave Lumian relates “Then the glorious New England sunshine brightened up for a terrific day of sailing and clicking!” Pictured here left to right: Billy Black, Gretchen Thor (assistant photographer), Randy Ealy, Jr., Norman Schmittkind, Wendy Mackie, Jeremy McGeary and ASA instructor Regina Krieger. Dave also says, “Many thanks to Rob Lawnsby (not pictured) at Narragansett Sailing for pulling together the nice Hunter 33s and the excellent crew!”

We’re working to complete book as soon as possible, since many of you have eagerly asked when it will be ready. We’re not making hard promises at this moment, because you can’t rush a standard of high quality! But it’s right around the corner, and when it does release, 103’s Cruising Made Easy will be the perfect companion to 101’s Sailing Made Easy.

Photo credit: Dave Lumian