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How to Obtain an International Captain's License

How to Obtain an International Captain's License

Publication date: 20.02.2025

Stages of yacht captain training
Where to complete yacht captain training

The ability to operate a yacht is akin to the skill of driving a car. In both cases, once acquired, this skill grants lifelong freedom of movement. To legally sail in any country's waters, one must obtain an internationally recognized yacht license.

License to operate a yacht in international waters

Yacht Captain Training Stages

Learning to operate a yacht consists of two stages:

Studying theory: yacht structure, sailboat handling, navigation skills, radio communication course.

Conducted through in-person classes or online distance learning via educational platforms.
Practical training: reinforcing yacht handling skills in real conditions.

Takes place over one week in Mediterranean coastal waters.

International yacht licenses can only be obtained from certified sailing schools. A skipper's license is required by charter companies and insurers.

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Where to Get Yacht Captain Training

In Russia, yacht training can be completed at two state organizations:

The State Inspectorate for Small Vessels (GIMS) registers boats, motorboats, sailboats, and issues operating licenses.
The Russian Sailing Federation (VFPS) primarily focuses on training sailors for competitions. Recognized by World Sailing, VFPS-issued licenses are valid internationally.

For complete confidence in being able to charter a yacht in any country worldwide, it is recommended to obtain an international captain's license from renowned sailing schools. While there is no single standardized license format, one should rely on yacht skipper training systems that comply with International Certificate of Competence (ICC) standards.

The ability to charter and operate a yacht without territorial restrictions is granted by internationally recognized yacht licenses issued by three certified ICC organizations:

RYA – Royal Yachting Association (United Kingdom)

A school with centuries-old traditions of English seamanship, founded in 1875. The challenge lies in studying in English, with all professional terms also needing to be learned in the language of instruction. The graduation diploma is recognized in the USA, Europe, and many Asian countries. The captain's license is issued without expiration.
IYT – International Yacht Training (Canada)

Operates worldwide through franchises, with lectures and training materials provided in students' native languages, though specialized terms must be used in English. Yacht operating licenses are valid for 5 years and can be renewed without retaking exams. License renewal costs start from $125.
ISSA – International Sailing School Association

A modern European association of sailing schools. Instruction and maritime terminology are taught in students' native languages. The website contains information about all schools and courses, with student data accessible in personal accounts. Training programs are continuously improved, with new manuals and methodological materials being released. The skipper's license is permanent and accepted by most charter companies worldwide.

The We Sail company's yachting school provides training for yacht captains under the ISSA system with issuance of an international license. Students from other schools may take the theoretical exam, while practical training occurs during an actual yacht voyage under the guidance of an experienced skipper.

Publication author

Maxim Andreev

Travel Coordinator at Wesail

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