Boat licence - What do I need and how to get it
Boat licence - what do I need and how to get it
Before you hit the road - what is a boat licence?
Boating is no longer just a holiday activity for the lucky. More and more Romanians are choosing to explore domestic and international waters aboard a boat. But - and it's a great gift - you can't get behind the wheel without the right licence.
Contents:
Why you can't sail without a licence
Just as you wouldn't get behind the wheel of a car without a driving licence, you're not allowed on a boat without an official authorisation. Beyond the legal obligation, a boat licence also means responsibility, safety and confidence that you know what you're doing when you're out on the water.
What types of boats require a licence
In general, you need a licence if:
The boat has an engine over 15 hp (according to Romanian regulations).
You sail on inland or maritime waters.
Want to charter a boat abroad.
ICC vs. RYA - Which do you choose?
When it comes to your boat licence, you've got two broad directions:
Romanian ICC licence (International Certificate of Competence), issued by the Romanian Naval Authority.
RYA Licence (Royal Yachting Association), issued by an internationally recognised RYA accredited school.
Let's take them one at a time.
What is an ICC licence issued in Romania
ICC is the document that certifies your ability to drive a recreational craft. It is issued by Romanian Naval Authority and recognised in member countries of UNECE Resolution No. 40 - covering much of Europe.
ICC licence categories in Romania
In Romania, the ICC licence is divided into the following categories:
Category A: Inland waters (lakes, rivers)
Category C: Maritime waters up to 6 nautical miles from the coast
Category D: For boats with powerful engines
Category S: Sailing
Category S - Sailing
This is essential if you want to sail a sailboat - even if it has a motor. Category S can be added in addition to an existing licence (A, C or D), but requires a practical test on a sailing boat.
How to get category S
To get category S, you must:
You already have a valid boat licence (A, C or D).
Take part in a practical sailing course or exam (organised by an approved school).
Demonstrate basic manoeuvres such as raising and lowering the sails, turning, stopping into the wind, using the rudder, etc.
It is essential that the school offering the course is NRA accredited.
What is the RYA licence
The RYA is the international gold standard in navigation training. It is a UK-based organisation with a solid worldwide reputation.
Most popular licences - Day Skipper and Yachtmaster
RYA Day Skipper: This is the basic level for those who want to drive a recreational boat independently, over short distances and in good weather conditions.
RYA Yachtmaster: This is the advanced licence for those who want to sail professionally or drive in difficult weather conditions over long distances.
Differences in approach: practice vs theory
A major advantage of the RYA system is its emphasis on real practical experience. It's not just about memorising concepts, it's about active navigationwhere you'll learn through hands-on exercises - manoeuvring in port, piloting, using on-board instruments, route planning, and much more.
All our trainers at CAPETAN.club are RYA Yachtmaster certified
undergo extensive training sessions and over time succeed in creating skippers we can be proud of and recommend to carry our name forward. Not only do we train competent skippers who can get you safely from A to B, but we also work with people you will enjoy spending time with, who are there for you throughout the week, able to understand and meet your needs.
All Capetan certified skippers that will be part of your sailing holiday have undergone extensive training during Hands On Practice Training and Hands On Practice Advanced Training ; all have at least 2000 miles as skipper in private or fleet events; are ICC and RYA certified, with a planned continuous qualification. As we say, sailing is a language that requires lifelong learning.
Capetan skippers reflect our values and standards: professionalism, safety and excellence.