C skipper's licence: what you need to know to get it

What is a C skipper's licence and what is it for?

A C skipper's licence, officially known as a Certificate of Competence to Skipper a Sea Yacht, is a document that allows you to legally skipper sea vessels up to 16 metres in length.

(Includes seagoing yachts up to a maximum length of 16 metres with a limitation of 20 nautical miles from the coastline, provided that the wind strength does not exceed 6 degrees Beaufort)

Yes, you read that right - you can sail sailboats or motorboats up to the size of a small house not only in the Adriatic, but anywhere else in the world. With this licence, you can rent boats and explore hidden coves and deserted beaches away from the noisy crowds.

Once you have it in your pocket, a world of adventure and opportunity opens up. Want to organise a romantic cruise for your loved one? Or take a group of friends on a proper sailing trip? The C skipper's licence is the key to these experiences. All you have to do is decide.

What are the requirements for a C skipper's licence?

Imagine that no one is testing you to see if you can sing "The sea is roaring" in the right key. But of course there are requirements. First, you must be over 18 - sorry to all the young enthusiasts, but skippering requires at least a minimum amount of maturity (or so the law says). Next, you need basic medical fitness certified by a doctor - no superman skills required, just being fit.

What about language skills? If you can speak English to at least a "help, where's the marina?" level, you're on your way. For communicating with other boaters and the coastguard, a basic knowledge of English will come in handy.

The process of obtaining a C skipper's licence: step by step

How to become a real captain? It's as simple as ABC... or rather A to Z. The whole process involves:

1,Theoretical course - You'll learn everything from navigation to meteorology to international rules of the road.
2,Practical course - You'll spend a week on a boat in Croatia, where you'll learn everything from marina manoeuvring to sail handling.
3,SRC course - Special training on how to use the radio (because who wants to wave a towel from the deck when calling for help?).
4,Examinations - The final step where you demonstrate your acquired knowledge and skills.

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Done! Then it's just a few formalities and "hello adventure".

Theoretical course: what to expect and how to prepare

The theory may sound boring, but believe me, when you're sitting in an air-conditioned room with other future captains and the lunch break includes a choice of three meals (including dessert!), it's not so bad.

In one weekend, you can absorb all the information you need: how to read navigational charts, understand the different types of buoys, or spot an approaching storm. The lecturers will take you through everything so clearly that even if you thought azimuth was an exotic fruit, you will be clear.

For maximum effect, I recommend bringing colored highlighters and taking notes. And most importantly - get to know the other participants during the weekend! They might just be your future partners at sea.

Practical course in Croatia: an unforgettable experience at sea

Theory is fine, but nothing prepares you better than a week on a real boat under the guidance of an experienced skipper. Practical courses are often held in Croatia - not only because of its beautiful waters and well-equipped marinas, but also because... well, let's face it: who wouldn't want to combine education with a little holiday?

Every day you'll practice different manoeuvres - anchoring in narrow bays, landing safely at the pier or dealing with "what to do if the engine refuses to cooperate" situations. Plus evenings spent sharing stories with the crew over a glass of local wine are simply priceless - but beware - alcohol does not belong at the helm!

SRC course and its importance for future skippers

The SRC (Short Range Certificate) course will give you a basic understanding of how to operate a marine radio. Ignorance is really no excuse - communicating at sea can save lives (and save you a lot of money on unnecessary hassle).

The course lasts just one afternoon and ends with an exam at the CTU (Czech Telecommunications Office). Bonus? This certificate makes you feel even more professional!

Examinations and formalities: the final steps to reach the goal

The final exam includes a theoretical part and practical skills. Prepare your best answers for the examiners and don't forget your calculator at home - you will be calculating the navigation example!

After successfully passing the exams, all that's left to do is fill in the forms for the Ministry of Transport and get your official Certificate of Competence to navigate a sea yacht. And voilà! You are officially a skipper.

And what next? Choose a boat and start planning your first adventure! The C Captain's License is not just a piece of paper; it's a ticket to a world of freedom, exploration and unforgettable experiences. So what do you say? Will you join us among the sea wolves?