Sailing in the Mediterranean is a dream for many, with its warm climate, stunning coastlines, and vibrant harbours. However, before setting sail, it’s essential to understand what sailing qualifications you need to sail in the Med.
If you’re looking to learn to sail and gain the necessary certification, here’s what you need to know.
Do You Need a Licence to Sail in the Med?
Unlike the UK, where no formal qualification is legally required to skipper a yacht, many Mediterranean countries have stricter regulations. Most charter companies and local authorities require evidence of sailing competence, typically in the form of an internationally recognised certificate.
Related article: What qualifications do you need for a UK sailing holiday?
RYA Day Skipper – Your Passport to Mediterranean Sailing
One of the most widely accepted qualifications is the RYA Day Skipper certificate. This certification demonstrates that you have the necessary skills to safely skipper a yacht in familiar waters by day. Many Mediterranean countries, including Greece, Spain, and Croatia, recognise the RYA Day Skipper as sufficient for bareboat chartering.
To obtain your RYA Day Skipper qualification, you’ll need to complete both a RYA Day Skipper Theory course and a Practical assessment. The practical course can be undertaken at an RYA Sea School, such as Sailing Logic, based in Port Hamble Marina, which provide expert tuition in real-world sailing conditions.
International Certificate of Competence (ICC)
For some Mediterranean destinations, particularly Italy and France, an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) may be required in addition to your RYA Day Skipper. The ICC is a straightforward qualification to obtain if you already hold an RYA Day Skipper certificate, as you can simply apply for it through the RYA.
Where to Learn to Sail and Gain Your Qualification
If you’re new to sailing or looking to upgrade your skills, enrolling in a reputable sea school is the best way to prepare for Mediterranean sailing. Here at Sailing Logic, we offer high-quality courses designed to help you gain the skills and confidence needed to sail independently.
Whether you’re starting your journey to learn to sail or refining your skills for an upcoming Mediterranean adventure, ensuring you have the right qualifications is crucial. The RYA Day Skipper course is the ideal stepping stone, and gaining an ICC will provide added flexibility for different destinations.
Get qualified, set sail, and experience the beauty of the Mediterranean with confidence! Contact us today to start planning your next sailing course now that you know what sailing qualifications you need to sail in the Med.
