Question 1

Do I need a licence to sail a yacht in Spain?

Accepted Answer

As a guest on one of our skippered trips, no licence is needed: Walter is the qualified skipper. If you want to skipper a yacht yourself in Spanish waters, you should carry suitable evidence of competence such as an ICC or accepted RYA certificate. The exact rule can depend on your nationality, residency and the yacht flag, so we will point you to the current RYA Spain guidance before you book a course pathway.

Question 2

Are RYA certificates valid for sailing in Spain?

Accepted Answer

RYA certificates are widely used by visiting recreational sailors, and the RYA has confirmed several UK-issued certificates for use in Spanish waters, including the ICC, Day Skipper and Yachtmaster certificates. Spanish citizens or residents can face different national requirements, so check the official RYA country advice for your exact situation.

Question 3

Does an RYA certificate replace the Spanish PER?

Accepted Answer

No. An RYA certificate or ICC can be suitable evidence for many visiting recreational sailors, but it does not replace Spain’s national PER route for Spanish nationals or Spanish-flagged vessels where that rule applies. If your situation touches Spanish residency, nationality or a Spanish-flagged boat, check the official guidance before you rely on any certificate.

Question 4

Are your RYA courses taught in English?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All RYA courses are delivered in English by Walter Henderson, a native-English instructor based in Alicante. Walter can also support students in Spanish, French or German on request.

Question 5

What is the difference between Competent Crew and Day Skipper?

Accepted Answer

Competent Crew turns a beginner into a useful, active crew member: steering, sail handling, ropework, safety and watches. Day Skipper is the next skipper-level step and teaches you to take charge of a small yacht in familiar waters, so it expects previous sailing miles and Day Skipper theory knowledge.

Question 6

Do I need any sailing experience before Competent Crew?

Accepted Answer

No. Competent Crew is the entry-level practical course for complete beginners. By the end you should be able to steer, handle lines and sails, keep a lookout and contribute properly on deck.

Question 7

How long does the RYA Day Skipper practical course take?

Accepted Answer

The Day Skipper practical course is a five-day course. If you are travelling to Alicante with limited time, ask about the fastest sensible route for combining theory preparation with the practical week.

Question 8

Can I do Day Skipper theory and practical together?

Accepted Answer

Yes, depending on dates and your current experience. Many students complete theory online before travelling, while others prefer a concentrated theory-and-practical plan. We will advise the route that leaves you prepared rather than rushed.

Question 9

Do I need to complete the theory before the practical course?

Accepted Answer

For Day Skipper practical, the shorebased theory is strongly recommended before you step aboard because the practical course assumes navigation, chartwork, pilotage and weather basics. If you are unsure, send us your experience and we will map the right preparation.

Question 10

Can I do RYA theory courses online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. RYA shorebased theory and the SRC marine-radio course can be completed online with tutor support, which is useful if you want to prepare at home before travelling to Alicante for the practical course.

Question 11

How many miles do I need for the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore exam?

Accepted Answer

The RYA currently lists the Yachtmaster Offshore pre-exam sea time as 50 days at sea, 5 days as skipper, 2,500 nautical miles and 5 passages over 60 nautical miles, including 2 overnight passages and 2 as skipper. You also need supporting certificates such as marine radio and first aid. Always check the current RYA exam page before planning your final exam.

Question 12

What are the prerequisites for Coastal Skipper practical?

Accepted Answer

Coastal Skipper practical is for sailors who already have Day Skipper-level knowledge and real passage experience, including navigation, pilotage and night hours. If your logbook sits between Day Skipper and Yachtmaster, send us the details and Walter will advise the right next step.

Question 13

Where can I build sea miles for Yachtmaster in the Mediterranean?

Accepted Answer

Alicante is a strong base for Mediterranean mile building: longer coastal legs, night hours and open-water decisions without the heavy tidal regime of the UK. Costa Blanca Sailing can shape multi-day passages around your logbook goals and link them to Yachtmaster preparation.

Question 14

How long is the boat trip to Tabarca from Alicante?

Accepted Answer

Tabarca is a short sail down the coast from Marina Alicante. Our private full-day Tabarca sail keeps the day unhurried, with time to sail, anchor, swim or go ashore when the weather and anchorage are suitable.

Question 15

Can you snorkel at the Tabarca marine reserve?

Accepted Answer

Usually, yes. Tabarca is known for clear protected water, and the private day sail can include time to swim or snorkel when the anchorage, weather and sea state make it safe and comfortable.

Question 16

How much does it cost to charter a yacht with a skipper in Alicante?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the shape of the trip. A private half-day sail, full-day Tabarca charter and multi-day voyage all price differently, with the yacht and skipper reserved for your group. Choose the closest option on the day-sailing or voyages page and enquire with your preferred date.

Question 17

What is included in a private skippered charter?

Accepted Answer

The charter includes the Elan 434 Impression yacht, a professionally qualified skipper, safety equipment and route planning around the forecast. Day sails include the local sailing plan for your private group; food, drinks packages, marina fees or shore costs are confirmed separately where relevant.

Question 18

How many people can come on a private sailing charter?

Accepted Answer

Local day sails are private for your group and can take up to 9 guests. If your group includes children, mixed confidence levels or anyone nervous at sea, mention that when you enquire so Walter can shape the day comfortably.

Question 19

Do you offer private sunset sails?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Private evening sails are available seasonally from Marina Alicante and work well for couples, families and small groups who want a quieter golden-hour sail. Exact timing depends on daylight, weather and the yacht calendar.

Question 20

Do you sell sailing experiences as gift vouchers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Private day sails and sunset sails can be arranged as gift vouchers by enquiry. Tell us the experience you have in mind and we will confirm the best format, validity window and booking process.

Question 21

When is the best time of year to sail the Costa Blanca?

Accepted Answer

The Costa Blanca has a long, friendly sailing season, with practical training and private sailing available all year. Spring and autumn are especially comfortable for learning; summer brings warm swimming and longer social days; winter can still offer clear, useful training conditions.

Question 22

What should I bring on a day sail or course?

Accepted Answer

Bring soft-soled shoes, sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, a light layer and any personal medication. For courses, we will confirm the kit list and certificates before you join. Seasickness is uncommon in Alicante conditions, but if you know you are prone to it, take your usual remedy before boarding.

Sailing School & RYA Certification in Alicante

Sailing school Spain from Alicante?

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