The International Certificate of Competence (ICC)
Guide Price
Prices starting from £425
Who is this course for
Ideal for experienced sailors planning to operate or charter a pleasure craft abroad and needing to formally evidence their competence.
About Course
The International Certificate of Competence (ICC) serves as formal proof of boating proficiency and may be requested by authorities in foreign countries. Across much of Europe, the ICC is a standard requirement for those wishing to charter a vessel or operate their own boat.
For candidates with limited experience, the ICC can be obtained by completing the RYA Day Skipper Theory and Practical Sailing courses. This is the best way to achieve the ICC as the courses are designed to guide and teach you towards your qualification. The ICC is an assessment and not tuition. Experienced sailors who believe they meet the RYA Day Skipper standard may instead undertake a direct assessment with one of our qualified RYA instructors. This assessment can be arranged by joining a weekend training course or booking a private session, providing a flexible pathway to certification.
Types of ICC
Yacht Sailing : Direct assessment on a sailing yacht or through the RYA Day skipper Sail. You will automatically obtain the ICC Power under 10 metres.
Powerboat under 10 metres : RYA Powerboat Level 2 or direct assessment on a powerboat. You will automatically gain the Personal Watercraft endorsement.
Powerboat over 10 metres : RYA Day skipper Motor or direct assessment on a motor boat over 10 metres.
Course Content
Please download the attached ICC form where you will see a detailed list of what is required within the exam. The assessment for one person takes half a day but we recommend a full day to give you time to get familiar with the boat.
The ICC exam can be completed on our boats or your own boat. The ICC is valid for 5 years and can be renewed without completing further tests, but by declaring your time on the water.
There is an additional fee to the RYA for the ICC application of £45. If you are a member of the RYA the application is free.
Course Structure
- All courses run 0900 till 1700 and please bring a pack lunch.
- You will be assessed to prove that you have sufficient knowledge and ability to safely operate a pleasure craft.
- Part of the assessment involves planning and executing a trip to another location.
- The assessment is practical and hands-on
Course Objectives
Demonstrate your competence to operate a pleasure craft in line with international standards
Meet the requirements to operate or hire a boat outside the UK
Show practical knowledge of boat handling, safety, and seamanship
Navigate safely in coastal waters (and inland waters if applicable)
Pre requirements
Experienced in sailing or power boating
Duration
1 day direct assessment for ICC
Location
Booking
Book online from the dates on this page or call 01273 42 48 42 option 1 or email us.
If you cannot find a suitable dates please contact us.
Location
What to bring
- Please discuss at time of booking as will vary depending upon the type of ICC you are aiming to get.
- Logbook so the examiner can see and sign off the day of sailing and milage
- Be prepared for changeable weather, bring plenty of layers
- Quick drying clothes can be very practical, avoid jeans
- Gloves for warmth and rope friction protection
- Sunglasses, sunhat and suncream for summer months and woolly hats, thermals and layers for winter months
- Deck boots and non-slip deck shoes or trainers that don’t mar
- Waterproofs: We can supply waterproofs for hire, Musto BR1s. You will need to order these in advance so we can have them ready for your arrival. If you have your own waterproofs, please bring them, they are a necessity
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FAQ's
How to Book
Courses can be booked directly through our website. If you’re unsure which course is right for you, our team is happy to advise.
Yes, availability is displayed on each experience page. If your preferred date isn’t shown, please contact us as we may still be able to accommodate you.
We recommend booking 4–8 weeks in advance, particularly for popular courses like RYA Day Skipper during the spring and summer season.
Course Information
No, beginners can start with RYA Competent Crew or our Learn to Sail package, which is designed for those with no previous sailing experience.
For most people, reaching RYA Day Skipper takes several months to a year, depending on availability and experience. A typical pathway includes:
- RYA Competent Crew (5 days)
- RYA Day Skipper Theory (online or classroom)
- RYA Day Skipper Practical (5 days)
Our Zero to Day Skipper Package is the fastest and most cost effective way to achieve the Day Skipper certificate.
There is no formal written exam during the practical course. Assessment is continuous and based on competence and confidence on board.
In the UK, the ICC is usually issued through the RYA. You can obtain one by:
Holding an accepted RYA qualification (such as Day Skipper) and applying to the RYA directly to convert it to an ICC, or
Passing an ICC assessment with an RYA-approved training centre
Yes. Once you hold RYA Day Skipper Practical, you can apply for an ICC without further testing.
During the RYA Competent Crew and RYA Day Skipper courses you will be expected to stay onboard for:
Part 2 (3 days) & 5 Consecutive days
The boat will visit marinas during this course, if the boat is in Brighton Marina then you are welcome to stay at home.
Our Part 1 Yacht courses and Level 1 & Level 2 courses are run as non-residential and you are not expected to stay onboard.
Any other questions
No, beginners can start with RYA Competent Crew or our Learn to Sail package, which is designed for those with no previous sailing experience.
We generally recommend not taking part in our activities if you’re pregnant, as being on the water can involve movement and conditions that aren’t always predictable.
If you do feel comfortable taking part, we usually suggest no later than around 21 weeks, but this is very much a personal decision. Everyone’s pregnancy is different, so please go with what feels right for you and consider speaking to your healthcare professional if you’re unsure.
If you let our team know in advance, we’re always happy to have a chat and help you decide what’s best for you.