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Sailing license cost in Croatia, Greece & Turkey

Let’s say you already know how to sail a boat and you think about getting a sailing license. Or maybe you have one, but you want to get an international sailing license. First, you need to do your research – decide in which country you would like to apply in order to achieve your goal, gather all the information on which documents you need and what you have to do in order to get an international sailing license. In this article, we will help you decide exactly that.

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Understanding how to get a sailing license can be difficult. It is because many countries issue them differently. In this article, we decided to give you more information about how to get a sailing license in Croatia, Greece and Turkey.

How to get a sailing license in Croatia?

For starters, why Croatia? For those who have never visited the country, a charter cruise there can easily compete for a memorable experience. It has a lot of islands to explore and is very busy during a peek season. The country is perfect for the nature-lovers since it has more of an off the beaten track feel.

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When it comes to sailing license in Croatia, anyone who drives a boat in the territorials of the Republic of Croatia must possess valid license navigation which must include VHF radio license that will be: international, a license of his country obtained according to law or Croatian license. When it comes to skip’s license, it is a legal requirement and there is an official list of recognised licenses published by the authorities. This list shows qualifications that are issued by many authorities around the world that are recognised in Croatia. The following sailing licenses and permits issued by approved organisations are valid in Croatia:

  • ICC (International Certificate of Competence), International
  • RYA – Day Skipper Course
  • IPC (International Proficiency Certificate), America

If you want to apply for a Skip’s license in Croatia, you need to pass some tests and examinations. What you need to know for the review is the following:

  • Registratistration is available in captaincies ports
  • Content: theoretical test in a form of questions that you need to answer in a given time (20 minutes)
  • Languages: English, German, Croatian
  • Approximate cost: €150 EU to €200 EU

Sailing License in Greece

When it comes to Greece, there are literally numerous islands that wait to be explored. It is perfect for those of you who want to explore the unspoiled shores. Have in mind that the distance between the islands is quite big. Also, note that in Greece the winds are stronger than in Croatia, or Turkey, so it can be a bit challenging if you are unprepared, especially in the months of July and August.

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If you want to charter a yacht in Greece, there should be a licenced skipper and experienced crew members on board who are more than 18 years old. The expertise of the crew members has to be confirmed by a competent skipper in a written form.

If you want to know which sailing licenses or permits are valid in Greece, this is the list:

  • IPC (International Proficiency Certificate), America – ASA 104 or US Sailing (Bareboat Cruising Course)
  • ICC (International Certificate of Competence), International (€454 EU or €318 EU)
  • IMPORTANT NOTE: Greek port authorities do not accept “RYA Day Skipper Course” license since 2018. This means the sailors should prepare ICC, IPC, ASA 104 – 105, or equivalent

Sailing License – Turkey

Perfect for those who are looking for archaeological and historical interest, Turkey is the destination where you can explore ruins, castles and ruins. In here you will find beautiful bays ideal for swimming and snorkelling, not so many smaller islands though.

Turkey expects skippers to be qualified, but there is no official list of recognized licenses. Qualifications ideally should be from a national sailing body like RYA, ISA or one of the larger licensing bodies like IYT and ASA. The qualification should possibly include a photo and some sort of official number. The costs for RYA License start from €430 EU to €995 EU, ISA – €150 EU to €365 EU.

Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

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Our team of chartering specialists are ready to assist you to make your chartering experience as easy as possible. We have different itineraries to cater for any type of activity you choose to do, once you are ashore.

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