Thanks to its predictable weather patterns and enclosed sailing area, the Southern Ionian has become famous with sailors from across the globe as a relatively safe and ‘easy-sailing’ yacht charter destination. With a number of secure and safe harbours, marinas and anchorages on each island. Our sailing area is perfect for novices under RYA training or a skippered charter, or experienced sailors enjoying a bareboat charter with one of the accepted qualifications for chartering in Greece.
However, with respect to the Greek port authorities and the fact that a yacht can be dangerous in the wrong hands, it is essential that the named Skipper on board the yacht has an accepted qualification. As a minimum, the skipper must hold one of the following:
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ICC SAIL
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RYA DAY SKIPPER PRACTICAL
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RYA COASTAL SKIPPER PRACTICAL
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ASA 104 BAREBOAT CRUISING CERTIFICATE
REVISION 20/04/2019: Following a complaint to the Greek Marine Ministry, the Ministry have reviewed their decision and can confirm that the Day Skipper certificate will be accepted in Greece.
If you do not hold any of the above, you will not legally be allowed to charter a yacht in Greece.
The ‘First Mate’ does NOT need to hold a recognised qualification, they must be over 18 & suitably experienced to assist the skipper.
OPTION 1
There are also a number of RYA training centres all over the UK which run regular Day Skipper theory and practical courses. If you are keen to get qualified before you come out sailing with us, this is a good option. You can contact us if you would like any more information or a school recommendation.
You can also obtain an ICC in the UK prior to coming out to Greece. An ICC is ideal for those with a good amount of experience but lacking in time to commit to a full Day Skipper course in the UK. Most training centres in the UK can offer an ICC assessment in a day, and some will also offer a day of training before you take the assessment which is a good idea for those who haven’t sailed in a while and may be a little rusty.
Please note you will need to take an ICC assessment a good few weeks in advance of your holiday start as you then need to apply for an ICC with the RYA which can take a couple of weeks. This is why we cannot run an ICC course out in Greece for you then to charter bareboat straight away. Until you have the physical ICC in your hand, you are not legally qualified.
OPTION 2
A Skippered Charter is the perfect way to fully relax on holiday. Take the stress away by having one of our RYA qualified professional and friendly skippers onboard – you can do as much or as little as you like!
If you have any more questions, please do not hesitate to contact the office!