Licences & exams
How to Choose the Right Boating Licence for You
Sailing vs powerboat vs ICC, national vs international, and what each boating licence actually lets you do: a practical guide to choosing the right one first.
Aug 27, 2026 · 5 min
Sailing · Powerboat · Jet ski
Get your boating licence,
Get your boating licence,
first try.
Study for your sailing, powerboat or ICC exam with a clear course, realistic mock tests and country-by-country guides across Europe. We cover the rules of the road, navigation, safety, weather and seamanship — everything the official theory exam asks. Start free.
- Structured lessons — from zero to confident skipper
- Realistic mock exams with clear explanations
- Step-by-step exam guide for your own country
90+ guides 8 countries 10 languages Free to start
How it works
From landlubber to licensed
Four steps, whichever boat you dream of.
- 1
Start free
Create your account and dive into the first lessons — no card needed.
- 2
Learn the theory
Rules, navigation, weather and safety — explained simply.
- 3
Pass mock exams
Practise on realistic tests until you're consistently ready.
- 4
Sit the real exam
We show you where and how to get licensed in your country.
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Gear & boats
Anchoring Gear Explained: Anchors, Chain and Rode for Beginners
Understand anchoring gear from anchor types to chain, rope and scope, so you can choose the right ground tackle and anchor your boat safely and with confidence.
Aug 9, 2026 · 6 min
Rules of the road
Anchoring Rules and Signals: Lights, Shapes and Good Practice
What the COLREGs require when anchored: the day shape, the anchor light at night, fog signals, and where you may and may not anchor safely and legally.
Aug 9, 2026 · 5 min
FAQ
Common questions
Do I really need a licence to drive a boat?
It depends on the country and the boat. Many countries require a licence above a certain engine power or length. Our country guides tell you exactly when you need one — and when you don't.
Is the course really free to start?
Yes. You can create an account and start learning the theory for free, no card required. Premium unlocks the full course, timed mock exams and country-specific exam prep.
Which licence should I get — ICC, SBF, PER…?
That depends on where you'll sail and what you'll sail. The ICC is recognised across many countries, while each country also has its own (SBF in Germany, PER in Spain, patente in Italy). Our guides help you choose the right one.
Can I prepare in my own language?
Yes. The course and guides are available in several European languages, so you can learn in the one you think in — while the exam itself is taken with your national authority.
How long does it take to get ready?
Most people are exam-ready in a few evenings of focused study. Our mock exams show you when you're consistently passing, so you book the real exam with confidence.
Your first sail is closer than you think.
Join thousands learning the smart way. Start free, learn at your pace, and walk into your exam ready to pass.
Start free →Free to start · no card required