What course is required to have a sailing license?

Question

I am looking to charter a sailboat for a vacation in the Med, What license is required? and what course provides this license.

Thanks

Answer 1

You'll need an International Certificate of Competence (ICC). The RYA can/will supply you with this once you have completed their Day Skipper course. Incidentally, I live-aboard in the Med and I've never been asked to show mine. The charter company will want to see it though I'm sure. Why not ask them what they want?

Answer 2

The scary thing about charter companies is that a lot of the time they don't require or check for any type of knowledge or credentials when someone asks about chartering a boat.

The best I can offer is that when you contact a potential charter company, specifically ask them this same question.  Different countries will have different requirements.  In Canada as long as the boat is under about 65 feet and 20 tons or so, nothing other than a basic personal operators certificate is required.  That's a lot of boat for someone with only a little knowledge.

In North America, the Power and Sail Squadrons offer general boating courses that will earn you certificates upon completion.  You can also check for other "on the water" courses available near you.  But, by all means, try and get on the water and go sailing first-hand to get the feel of what's going on... before you rent some big, shiny sailboat in the Med.

Answer 3

I've done this and the level they require is RYA DaySkipper .There are lots of charters eg Sunsail and if you lack experience ,go for a flotilla holiday .It gives you a lot of freedom but people are around at the end of the day to help moor you which is the hardest part.Try Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast ,its easier than Greece,if you are a starter.

Answer 4

For one...ask the company. Secondly grab a sailing magazine...the back adds are full of acredited companies offering the Sailing Acreditation that reputable charter companies desire. Even some charter companies offer the courses.

Good luck