If you’re passionate about sailing and dream of exploring international waters, obtaining an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is a key step.
Whether you're cruising the Mediterranean, navigating the waters of Northern Europe, or planning to rent a boat abroad, an ICC ensures you have the recognized credentials to do so. But what exactly is the ICC, and why is it so important for sailors? Let’s dive in!
What is the International Certificate of Competence (ICC)?
The International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is an internationally recognized qualification that certifies a person’s competence to operate a boat in certain European and international waters. It’s like a driver’s license for boats, required by many countries to ensure that sailors have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely handle a vessel.
The ICC is governed by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and is valid for both power and sailboats, depending on the qualifications you achieve.
Why and Where Do I Need an International Certificate of Competence (ICC)?
The ICC may not be required in every country, but it is vital in many European nations to simplify the boat chartering or rental process and help you avoid potential legal issues and delays.
Generally speaking, an ICC is required for navigating inland waterways in Europe and both inland and coastal waters in Mediterranean countries. For coastal waters in Northern Europe, the ICC is typically not needed. However, there are exceptions to these general guidelines.
As of 2024, the following countries recognise the ICC in their territories:
Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, South Africa, Switzerland, Ukraine and United Kingdom.
In reality many countries, apart from the ones who have formally recognised the ICC, choose to accept it – but of course this is on their terms and can be subject to local variations. Spain, Greece and Portugal, for example, have not formally accepted the ICC but are still most likely to ask visitors for it.
Holders of a RYA Day Skipper Practical certificate (or higher), RYA Level 2 PB Certificate (or higher) and RYA Day Skipper Motor certificate (or higher) do not require an ICC to sail or charter in Greece
We recommend researching online before your charter or rental to ensure you're informed and aware of the specific requirements in each country.
How can I obtain my ICC?
If you are a national of one of the countries listed above that recognize the ICC, you must coordinate with the relevant governing body responsible for issuing the certificate in your country.
If you are not, we can assist you in obtaining a UK ICC issued by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).
How can I get my ICC issued by the RYA?
Eligibility
The RYA is the governing body for the issuance of the ICC in the UK.
The UK ICC is intended for UK Nationals and UK residents i.e. people who are settled in the UK and whose primary residence is in the UK.
The RYA will also issue the ICC to nationals of other countries that have not formally recognised the ICC because they may otherwise be unable to obtain an ICC.
Apart from that, to apply for an ICC with the RYA you must be:
age 16 or over
physically and mentally fit to operate a pleasure craft
Proof of Competence
A UK ICC can only be issued once the applicant has demonstrated their ability to safely operate the type of boat they are applying for.
There are two ways to prove your competence:
A separate ICC assessment, which can be conducted at our training centre. Please contact us to book your assessment. This assessment does not include any training; it assumes the applicant already meets the competency requirements for each discipline (sail, powerboat, or motor) based on prior experience or non-RYA coursework.
An appropriate RYA sailing (RYA Day Skipper Practical or higher), powerboat (RYA Level 2 PB Certificate or higher) or motor (RYA Day Skipper Motor or higher) certificate.
In the latter case, no further assessment is required. If you already hold one of the certificates listed above, you can apply directly for an ICC on the RYA website.
You only have to submit the required documents regarding your nationality and competence and pay the relevant fee (currently £55, free for RYA members).
In addition to arranging your ICC assessment or assisting you in achieving the RYA qualification required to apply directly for the ICC, we will also support you with the application process. This includes addressing any questions or concerns you may have and guiding you through each step of the application.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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