wrote on Sep 30^th, 2009 at 11:09am:

What is ICC? Is the RYA qualification recognised in Spain?  I gather there is a RYA course in Alicante but if it's not recognised then there seems little point in doing it. Thanks, Nigel p.s. this isn't for me it's for a friend of mine!

The ICC stands for International Certificate of Competence. It is issued by the RYA. In my case I had to send copies of my RYA qualifications to them with a passport photo.  The ICC lists (like a driving licence) what vessels it is valid for. It has a date of issue and an expiry date. On the back it says, "The holder of this document has successfully passed the tests necessary to demonstrate his/her competence to operate pleasure craft", and is translated into a number of languages.

I think the RYA qualifications are fine while you are on holiday, or you are non resident but when you become resident, you must hold Spanish qualifications for certain sizes/types of boat.

One day we  will be in the EU  ::)

If your friend is a member of the RYA, he could contact them?

It would be interesting to hear what the sailing school in Alicante has to say?

I was thinking of bringing my jetski  (now sold) with me to Spain, this is how I found out about the problems.