If you’re into sailing, there aren’t many better places in the world than Spain to do it.
Whether you’re an experienced sailor or someone who wants to try it out for the first time (more on how you can do that below), there’s ample opportunity in Spain between the mainland peninsula and its various islands.
In fact, Spain has around 8,000km of coastline and access to the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Bay of Biscay. For boat enthusiasts, you’re spoilt for choice here.
But it’s not just as simple as picking out a boat, renting it and setting off into the ocean.
There are rules. Here’s what you need to know.
READ ALSO: EXPLAINED: How to buy a boat in Spain
Do I need a licence to rent a boat in Spain?
Yes and no. Put simply, it depends on the type of boat (more on that below) but generally speaking to rent a boat in Spain, you’ll need a sailing licence for bigger boats whereas some smaller ones don’t require it.
According to Spain’s official tourism website: “You do not need a specific boating licence to pilot a recreational boat in Spain, provided that the maximum length of the boat is 5 metres, maximum power of 11.26 kilowatts and also provided that you navigate no more than 2 miles from the coast.This regulation also applies to sailing boats with a length of up to 6 metres.”
So, we can say that usually it isn’t necessary for smaller boats, as well as peddle boats, kayaks or canoes.
However, rental site FunBoat.es also claims that the exact type of licence you need can also vary depending on the region of Spain you’re in, so it’s always better to check beforehand.
Is there an age limit?
Yes, you must be 18 to rent a boat in Spain.
Advertisement
What types of licences are there in Spain?
There are several types of nautical licences to sail different boats in Spain, such as the PNB (Basic Navigation Skipper), the PER (Recreational Boats Skipper), the PY (Yacht Skipper) or the CY (Yacht Captain).
Each has specific limitations in terms of length, power, distance from the coast and the type of sailing you can do.
READ ALSO: How do I get my boat licence in Spain
What if I have a sailing/navigation licence from abroad?
You can use it as proof, but you’ll need your qualification verified before heading out to sea.
As per the Spanish tourism website again: “If you are renting a boat and your boating certificate was not issued in Spain, you will need a permit from the competent Harbour Master certifying that the foreign certificate is valid for that boat.”
This procedure is usually done via the rental company.
Do you need previous sailing experience?
Again, it depends. For smaller boats you can rent without a licence, no you don’t need any experience but generally speaking it’s obviously helpful to have previous sailing experience before renting a boat.
You must be at least familiar with the rules of navigation, emergency signals and boat handling to ensure safety while sailing. Often rental companies walk you through the basics before setting off.
Advertisement
Do you need insurance?
Most companies will make you take out insurance for the rented boat. Even if you’re opting for a smaller boat and hoping to stay close to the coast, insurance protects you in case of any damage or incident during the charter.
What are my responsibilities?
Obviously, the owner (whether it be a rental company or private owner) is responsible for providing the boat in good condition and complying with the terms of the contract.
When renting a boat, you are responsible for the care and safety of the boat during the charter and for complying with local boating regulations.
Why rent a boat without a licence?
“Unlicensed boats” as SamBoat puts it (another rental service) are generally smaller boats “ideal for short and close to shore sailing.”
Think more a few hours bobbing along the coast and less long-term navigation. For those bigger boats capable of longer journeys, you’ll need a licence.
Advertisement
What do I need to do before renting a boat in Spain?
You’ll need to find a rental company and decide on a type of boat, though if you’re doing it without a licence this will narrow things down for you.
You’ll likely need to pay a deposit and sign a fair bit of paperwork, and then you’ll also have to take a brief instruction class with the owner or rental company before going out to sea.
Can you hire a boat with a skipper?
Yes, you can, and this might be good (and safer!) solution for those wanting to enjoy some sailing but without the responsibilities and risks of doing it without any experience in an unknown place.
The good thing about renting a boat with a skipper is that you can relax because they’re an expert and you’ll get more out of it that way – skippers know the local area so he will be able to show you hidden places others tourists wouldn’t get to.
READ ALSO: EXPLAINED: How to live on a boat in Spanish waters
