Understanding where and how your qualifications are recognised can be a real challenge, as there is no single international standard for recreational boating certifications. The lack of cross-border validation impacts skippers, charter companies, and even nautical training centres. Yes, your RYA qualification does stand you in good stead, as it is generally recognised around the world as the highest standard, but what bit of paper do authorities actually want to see? To shed some light on how this works in Spain, we’ve teamed up with our friends at Julio Verne Nautica to get you up to speed.

Freedom of Navigation and National Regulations

Since 1982, the right to navigate international waters has been recognised under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This grants vessels the freedom to sail under their national flag without interference from other states. However, each country sets its own rules for recreational boating within its territorial waters (up to 12 nautical miles from shore). This means that the validity of your qualification depends on the regulations of the country where you plan to sail.

Do I Need a Boating License to Sail in Spain?

Unlike the UK, where there is no legal requirement for a license to skipper a private boat, Spain mandates official nautical qualifications for vessels over six meters in length or with engines above 15 HP. The specific rules are:

• For Spanish nationals: A Spanish boating qualification is required.
• For foreign visitors: The qualification required in your home country is generally accepted.
• For foreign residents in Spain: You must hold either a recognised qualification from your home country or an officially validated equivalent.

This creates potential challenges, as enforcement agencies and insurance companies in Spain may not always be familiar with foreign qualifications. Additionally, Spanish recreational qualifications are not recognised outside Spanish waters, limiting their international use.

Is the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) Valid in Spain?

The ICC (International Certificate of Competence) is the closest thing to an internationally recognised recreational boating qualification. It is issued under UNECE Resolution 40 and is accepted in many European countries, but not Spain.

Countries Recognising the ICC as of March 2025:

🇦🇹 Austria
🇧🇾 Belarus
🇧🇪 Belgium
🇧🇬 Bulgaria
🇭🇷 Croatia
🇨🇿 Czech Republic
🇫🇮 Finland
🇩🇪 Germany
🇭🇺 Hungary
🇮🇪 Ireland
🇱🇻 Latvia
🇱🇹 Lithuania
🇱🇺 Luxembourg
🇳🇱 Netherlands
🇳🇴 Norway
🇵🇱 Poland
🇷🇴 Romania
🇷🇸 Serbia
🇸🇰 Slovakia
🇿🇦 South Africa
🇨🇭 Switzerland
🇺🇦 Ukraine
🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Are RYA Qualifications Valid in Spain?

The RYA (Royal Yachting Association) is one of the most respected boating training providers in the world, and its qualifications are widely accepted. But does Spain recognise them?

• If you’re a UK national or resident, you can typically use your RYA Day Skipper, Yachtmaster, or other RYA certificates when chartering in Spain.
• If you are not a UK national/resident, Spain may not formally validate RYA qualifications.
• Spain does NOT officially recognise the ICC, even if issued by the RYA.

Which RYA Qualifications Are Recognised in Spain?

When Do You Need an ICC or RYA Qualification in Spain?

• If you own a boat and sail under a UK flag, your qualification requirements are based on UK regulations (i.e., no license required for private use).
• If you charter a boat in Spain, Spanish authorities may accept RYA qualifications from UK nationals or residents but will not recognise the ICC.
• If you plan to sail under a Spanish flag, you must obtain an officially recognised Spanish qualification.

Need Help Understanding Boating Qualifications?

Navigating international boating regulations can be tricky, but with the right qualifications, you can set sail confidently. While RYA qualifications are widely respected, Spain’s unique regulations mean that understanding what’s accepted locally is essential—especially for chartering.

That’s why we’ve partnered with Julio Verne Náutica, to help you get the right qualifications and charter with confidence in one of the best sailing destinations in the world. Whether you need advice on licensing working towards your next qualification or are looking for your next unforgettable charter experience, Julio Verne Náutica is your go to on the Spanish coast.

Contact Julio Verne Náutica here.