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Mediterranean Chartering License Options

What You Need to Know Before You Go

Sailing in the Mediterranean is a dream for many, offering stunning coastlines, historic ports, and crystal-clear waters. Before you follow that dream make sure you’re ready because you’ll need more than just experience and/or courses to pick up that charter boat – you’ll need a license.

A Bit of History

Many Mediterranean countries mandate that sailors hold a recognized sailing license to ensure competency, safety, and compliance with international maritime laws. These licensing requirements stem from a broader effort to standardize boating qualifications, largely influenced by United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Resolution No. 40, adopted in 1998. The standards set out in Resolution 40 provide a reasonable and appropriate level of competence for day sailing with due regard to the safety of navigation and crew and the protection of the environment. It also allowed boaters to use a single certification across multiple countries. When first established, only the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) was available to be achieved and recognized by charter companies, however there were limited options to acquire your ICC outside of Europe.

Today

There are now more options available to North Americans to acquire a Mediterranean license, each with their own unique pathways to success. The three most recognized sailing certifications in the Mediterranean are the International Certificate of Competence (ICC), the Sailing License and Credentials (SLC), and the International Proficiency Certificate (IPC).

Read on for more details on why you need a license, the licenses available, and the pathways and pricing to get you there.

Why You Need a Sailing License in the Mediterranean

1. Legal Compliance

Sailing without a proper license in many Mediterranean countries is illegal. Countries like Spain, Italy, Greece, Croatia, and France have strict regulations requiring proof of competency before allowing sailors to charter or operate a vessel. Harbour authorities and maritime patrols regularly inspect boats for valid documentation. If a sailor is caught without the necessary certification, they may face fines, vessel impoundment, or even a ban from certain waters.

2. Chartering a Boat

For those looking to rent or charter a yacht, a recognized license is mandatory. Charter companies typically require an ICC, SLC, or IPC before handing over a vessel. Without one, renting a boat in the Mediterranean becomes nearly impossible.

3. Insurance Requirements

Boat insurance providers often require proof of competency before issuing coverage. If an accident occurs and the sailor lacks a valid license, the insurance company may refuse to cover damages or liabilities, leaving the individual financially responsible.

4. Safety and Navigation Skills

The Mediterranean can present challenging sailing conditions, including sudden strong winds (such as the Mistral in France or the Meltemi in Greece), congested ports, and complex maritime traffic. A recognized license ensures that a sailor has the skills to navigate safely, handle emergencies, and adhere to international maritime regulations.

5. International Recognition and Ease of Travel

Holding an internationally recognized license allows sailors to move between different Mediterranean countries without legal complications. While each country has its own regulations, the ICC, SLC, and IPC are widely accepted, making border crossings smoother.

The Three Main Mediterranean Sailing Licenses

1. International Certificate of Competence (ICC)

• Issued through International Yacht Training (IYT)

Prerequisites

• Sail Canada (SC) Intermediate Cruising Standard, a 5 day/4 night liveaboard course https://sailingstrong.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Intermediate-Cruise-February-28-2024.pdf
• OR ‘Equivalent Sailing Experience’
• Documented in your sailing resume
• Review SC Intermediate Cruising Standard to assess your knowledge & skills
• IYT Theory & Exam
• In-class or IYT on-line
• Government issued boating license (PCOC in Canada)

4 hour on-water assessment

• ICC afloat challenge and written exam
• On your boat or the boat of the school where you do your on-water assessment
• Optional ICC prep course available

Why Choose ICC

If you already have your Sail Canada (SC)vBasic Cruising Standard and want to continue along the Sail Canada path, then this may be the right option for you. It is important to note that the prerequisites for the recommended SC Intermediate Cruising Standard include the SC Basic Cruising Standard and the SC Basic Coastal Navigation courses.

Cautionary Note from IYT from their website

• “A number of charter brokers are asking to see/verify a higher nautical qualification other than the ICC alone. The ICC is not a ‘course’”. IYT recommends acquiring course credentials which would be the Sail Canada Intermediate Cruising or RYA Day Skipper.
• https://www.iytworld.com/courses/international-certificate-of-competency-icc/

Costs (approx.)

• SC Intermediate 5 day/4night liveaboard $1900
• IYT Theory in class $695 or online $140 US
• On water assessment $395
• Fee from IYT to issue ICC card approx. $100

2. Sailing License and Credentials (SLC)

The Sailing License and Credentials (SLC) is an alternative to the ICC that is widely accepted in the Mediterranean, particularly by charter companies. It is issued by NauticEd, a USCG recognized international sailing education body.

Prerequisites

• Complete the online theory Bareboat Charter Master and SLC courses – approx. 40 hours https://www.nauticed.org/bundle/view/bareboatcharter?school=Merilee-Wright
• Pass the SLC 100 question online knowledge test
• Log a minimum of 50 days of documented sailing experience
• 25 of those days must be as master of vessel and 25 on a boat > 28ft
• Government issued boating license (PCOC in Canada)

6 hour on-water assessment

• SLC afloat challenge and written exam
• On your boat or your assessor’s boat
• Optional one day preparation session available
• Review SLC rubrics to assess your knowledge & skills https://www.nauticed.org/images/certification/proficiency/Rubrics-SLC-ICC-BBCM.pdf?school=Merilee-Wright

Why Choose SLC?

• Perfect for seasoned sailors who want to charter in the Mediterranean but have no sailing certifications and aren’t interested in classroom or liveaboard courses
• Recognized by major charter brokers such as Moorings, Sunsail and Navigare
• https://www.nauticed.org/SLC?school=Merilee-Wright
• https://sailing-blog.nauticed.org/how-to-gain-your-slc-mediterranean-sailing-license/?school=Merilee-Wright

Costs (approx.)

• NauticEd Bareboat Charter Master bundle $175 US
• SLC 6 hour on water assessment $900
• SLC License Fee approx. $100 US

3. International Proficiency Certificate (IPC)

The International Proficiency Certificate (IPC) is an alternative to the ICC and is issued by the American Sailing Association (ASA) and serves as proof of competency for sailors looking to charter boats. It is widely accepted by charter companies.

Prerequisites

• ASA 101 – Keelboat Sailing 1, a two day day-sail course covering theory and on-water
• ASA 103 – Coastal Cruising, a two day day-sail course covering theory and on-water
• A one day day-sail plus written exam challenge is available if experienced
• https://asa.com/certifications/
• ASA 104 – Bareboat Cruising
• 3 day/2 night liveaboard & written exam

ASA International Proficiency Certificate

• Once you complete your ASA 104 you can apply for your IPC online directly from ASA
• https://asa.com/international-proficiency-certificate/

Why Choose ASA IPC?

The ASA IPC provides full course training and credentials to the Bareboat Cruising level and does not require another level of assessment or exams. This is a great option for those that have already completed their ASA courses to 104 and can just apply to get their IPC.

Costs (Approx.)

• 7 day liveaboard 101, 103, 104 bundle $2,500
• 2 day sail challenges for 101, 103 plus 3 day liveaboard for 104 $1,950
• IPC License Fee approx.. $100 US

Where Can I Get My Mediterranean License

Sailing Strong offers a pathway for you to achieve the Mediterranean license that’s right for you. Check out our one-page document that summarizes the three options and includes links to the relevant information you will need to make your choice. Factors to consider in your selection include your level of experience, certifications currently held, available time and financial investment. If you’re not sure which one is right for you, contact us and we’ll be happy to chat and help you figure it out!

If you’re planning to sail in the Mediterranean, securing the right license in advance ensures a smooth, legal, and enjoyable experience on the water. Before setting sail, always check the specific requirements of the country you’ll be visiting to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Learn to Sail - Female friends on a sailboat - taking sailing course

Empowering Women in Sailing

One of the things I am most passionate about in the sport of sailing is finding ways to make it more approachable, available and inclusive for women.  As a boat-owning skipper for the past 15 years I have actively supported women to become part of my crew so they can learn to sail.

Why?  Well, there are many reasons, not the least of which is because I think women can do anything they put their minds to!  Aside from experiencing the absolute joy of sailing, there are many benefits for women who learn to sail, such as:

  • Empowerment: Learning how to sail can be an empowering experience for women. It can help build confidence and self-reliance, as well as provide a sense of accomplishment and pride in learning a new skill.
  • Independence: Knowing how to sail gives women the freedom to explore the open seas on their own or with friends, without having to rely on anyone else.
  • Adventure: Sailing can be a thrilling and exciting activity that provides a sense of adventure and exploration. Learning how to sail can open up new opportunities for women to experience different parts of the world and connect with nature.
  • Bonding: Sailing can be a great way for women to bond with their partners or friends. Sharing the experience of sailing together can create lasting memories and deepen relationships.
  • Career Opportunities: Sailing can also provide career opportunities for women, such as working as a sailing instructor, boat captain, or crew member. By learning how to sail, women can open up new avenues for themselves in the job market.

There are a number of things that the overall sailing community can do to encourage and enable more women to sail, including:

  • Training and Education: Providing women with access to sailing training and education is crucial for empowering them in the sport. This can include classes, workshops, and mentorship programs that help women build their skills and confidence on the water.
  • Leadership Opportunities: Giving women leadership opportunities within sailing organizations and clubs can also be empowering. This can include serving on boards, committees, or as instructors, allowing them to have a voice and influence in the sailing community.
  • Inclusion and Diversity: Promoting diversity and inclusivity in sailing can help empower women and create a more welcoming and supportive environment. Encouraging women of all backgrounds to participate in sailing and addressing any barriers to entry can help ensure that everyone feels welcome and valued in the sport.
  • Role Models: Having strong female role models in sailing can also be empowering for women. This can include professional sailors, instructors, and other women who have made significant contributions to the sailing community.
  • Advocacy and Support: Advocating for policies and initiatives that support women in sailing, such as gender equity in racing events, can also help empower women in the sport.

Finally, I believe it’s extremely important for women sailing spouses to understand how to sail.  What if you’re out for a sail with your spouse/partner they have a medical emergency?  What if they fall overboard?  Would you know what to do?  Learning how to sail will enable you to handle the boat in case of an emergency situation when your spouse/partner is unable to do so.

Overall, empowering women in sailing involves creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, providing training and leadership opportunities, and promoting role models and advocacy. By doing so, women can feel empowered to participate and succeed in sailing.

Merilee Wright

Intermediate Sailing Instructor

Sail Canada, NauticEd, ASA, IYT