International Certificate of Competence (ICC)
International Certificate of Competence (ICC)
The International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is your passport to cruising the world. The EU and many other countries require this certificate for yacht charters, and without it you risk having your charter cancelled before you even leave the dock. We offer different pathways to the ICC depending on your experience, making sure you’re not only qualified but equipped with the practical skills for hassle-free cruising. Use our resources and preparation guides to make your Mediterranean holiday everything it should be.
Standard Pathway
The most common route to the ICC is to complete three of our courses — International Crew, Bareboat Skipper, and VHF Marine Radio. Once you hold these qualifications, gaining the ICC is simply a matter of completing an application. Our Bareboat Skipper course includes dedicated modules on Mediterranean-style berthing and other essential skills for sailing in the Med.
If you are already a competent crew member with 100 NM and 5 days’ sea time logged, you may be able to start directly at Bareboat Skipper level via a self-assessment.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Pathway
If you are an experienced skipper — typically someone who owns a yacht or holds other suitable qualifications — you may be eligible for the RPL Pathway. Rather than completing the full course sequence, RPL allows your existing skills and experience to be formally recognised. The process involves:
- A self-assessment to confirm your eligibility
- Submission of your sailing log
- An online theory test covering Collision Regulations and Buoyage
- A 2–4 hour on-water assessment covering safety briefing, sailing, man overboard, reefing, mooring, berthing, and docking
Group assessments are held on Thursday mornings approximately every two months, with up to 3 candidates per session. Cost is $650, which includes the ICC application fee. See available dates and booking below.
Private assessments are also available at a time that suits you. Many candidates choose to book a full day, combining coaching in the morning with the formal assessment in the afternoon.
- On-water assessment only (4–5 hours): $990
- Full day with training and assessment (weekdays only): $1,390
Please phone or email us to arrange a suitable day.
You will also need to obtain the VHF Marine Radio license if you don’t already have one
Getting started is easy. Just click the button below which takes you to a free ‘course’ that guides you through the necessary steps. You will be able to assess whether you are ready for the RPL Pathway and upload your documents.
