Sailing Licenses & Certificates by Country
One of the most common questions we hear from first-time bareboat charterers is: “Will my sailing license be accepted?”
The answer depends on three factors:
- The country where you charter
- The charter company's internal policy
- The insurance requirements for the yacht
The most widely recognised certificate worldwide is the ICC (International Certificate of Competence), issued under United Nations Resolution 40. Other internationally accepted certificates include:
- IYT Bareboat Skipper
- RYA Day Skipper
- ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising
- National sailing licenses issued by local authorities
Important: Acceptance of any license is always subject to the charter company's approval and insurance requirements. The same certificate may be accepted by one company and rejected by another. We always recommend sending us a copy of your license before booking so we can obtain written confirmation from the charter base.
Country-by-country overview
Croatia
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper (with ICC endorsement), ASA 104 and recognised national licenses.
VHF: VHF / SRC certificate is usually required for the skipper.
Croatia has some of the strictest licensing requirements in the Mediterranean. Original documents should be available at check-in.
Greece
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104 and recognised national licenses.
VHF: VHF certificate required for at least one person onboard.
Many Greek charter companies also ask for a second competent adult crew member (co-skipper declaration), although a second sailing license is not always required.
Italy (incl. Sardinia, Sicily & Amalfi Coast)
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104 and equivalent national licenses.
VHF: Recommended.
Many charter companies may request a парусное резюме in addition to your license, especially for larger yachts.
Spain (Mallorca, Ibiza & Balearics)
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper (with ICC endorsement), ASA 104 and PER for Spanish residents.
VHF: Recommended.
Most charter companies in the Balearics require license verification before arrival and original documents during check-in.
France (incl. Corsica & Côte d'Azur)
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104 and French national licenses.
VHF: Recommended.
French charter companies are generally flexible, particularly when supported by a solid sailing résumé.
Turkey (Göcek, Fethiye, Marmaris & Bodrum)
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104 and recognised national licenses.
VHF: Recommended but not always required.
Turkey is generally skipper-friendly, and sailing experience is often considered alongside formal certification.
Malta
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104 and recognised national licenses.
VHF: Recommended.
Requirements are broadly aligned with European charter standards.
Caribbean (BVI, Bahamas, St. Martin & Grenadines)
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104 or a strong парусное резюме.
VHF: Recommended.
Caribbean charter companies often place greater emphasis on practical sailing experience than on the specific license held. Some may require a short checkout sail.
Seychelles
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104 or a strong парусное резюме.
VHF: Recommended.
Bareboat charters are available, although some operators may request a detailed sailing résumé before confirming the booking.
Thailand (Phuket)
Accepted: ICC, IYT Bareboat Skipper, RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104 and recognised national licenses.
VHF: Usually not required.
Most charter companies focus on previous sailing experience and documented qualifications.
No license? You still have options
Hire a Professional Skipper
A professional skipper typically costs €180–€250 per day, plus food and cabin accommodation onboard. This is the best option if you want a relaxed holiday or are unfamiliar with the cruising area.
Book a Fully Crewed Yacht
Choose a yacht with a captain, hostess or full crew. Perfect for families, groups and guests who prefer to enjoy the destination without handling the yacht themselves.
Obtain a Sailing Certificate
The most popular entry-level certifications include:
- IYT Bareboat Skipper
- RYA Day Skipper
- ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising
Most courses take 5–7 days and provide a qualification accepted by charter companies worldwide.
Not sure if your license will be accepted?
Send us:
- A photo of your sailing license
- Your парусное резюме (if available)
- The country where you plan to charter
We will check the requirements with the charter company and provide written confirmation before you book.