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ICC Assessment at Sailing School Malta

Published on 20 December 2025

Sailing School Malta is an approved ICC test center, offering assessments for:

ICC Powerboat 10m Test
ICC Sail Test
ICC Motor 24m Test

The International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is widely recognised across Europe (excluding the UK) and provides evidence that you possess a basic level of competence to operate recreational vessels abroad. Whether you are sailing in the Mediterranean, exploring the Adriatic, or cruising European waterways, the ICC is often required by local authorities to ensure safe and responsible boating.

What is the ICC?

The ICC is not a formal international qualification, but it serves as proof of competence when requested by officials in foreign waters. While member states are not legally obliged to accept the ICC, it is widely recognised across most European countries as a valid demonstration of skills for recreational boaters.

It is important to note that the ICC cannot be issued to nationals of certain UNECE member countries unless they are British nationals or residents of the UK. These countries include Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Switzerland, Ukraine. For nationals residing in these countries, the RYA is not authorised to issue an ICC, so it is essential to check your eligibility before applying.

ICC and the RYA Pathway

Within the Day Skipper training scheme, the ICC is considered just below the level of the Day Skipper practical certificate. This means:

Day Skipper (Power or Sail) holders can apply for the ICC without any further tests. You simply complete the ICC application forms.
Powerboat Level 2 certificate holders may also apply, but only for power vessels up to 10 metres.
If you do not hold a Day Skipper or equivalent, you will need to undergo a test of basic boat handling, navigation, and knowledge of Collision Regulations (COLREGS) to obtain the ICC. While this is a practical and recognised qualification, it is not a substitute for the Day Skipper certificate. For ICC purposes, the required competence is essentially equivalent to Day Skipper standard.

Options for Obtaining Your ICC at Sailing School Malta

Option 1 – Weekend ICC Assessment for Experienced Sailors

If you already have equivalent or higher knowledge than the Day Skipper course, you can attend the ICC assessment over a weekend to demonstrate your competence. This assessment covers boat handling, navigation, and safety procedures under realistic conditions.

Sailing School Malta offers this test every weekend of the year (subject to availability), and prices are available upon request. This option is ideal for sailors with prior experience or training who want to validate their skills quickly.

Option 2 – ICC Package for Crew with Limited Experience

For students who have some crewing experience, such as Competent Crew, but lack navigational experience or time in charge, Sailing School Malta recommends the following structured approach:

Step 1 – Day Skipper Theory: Can be completed in a classroom or online; covers navigation, passage planning, collision regulations, tides, and meteorology.
Step 2 – Day Skipper Practical Course: Practical experience over 5 continuous days or split across weekends; hands-on training in boat handling, navigation, anchoring, and safety procedures.

Upon successful completion of the Day Skipper course, students can apply for the ICC without further testing. This pathway ensures you are fully prepared for independent cruising in international waters.

Direct ICC Eligibility via RYA Certificates

If you already hold certain RYA certificates, you may obtain an ICC directly, without further testing. Eligible qualifications include:

Why Choose Sailing School Malta for ICC Assessment?

Sailing School Malta provides:

Approved ICC test center with expert instructors
Assessments for powerboats, sailboats, and larger motor vessels
Flexible weekend scheduling for convenience
Practical, hands-on guidance in real Mediterranean sailing conditions
Professional support for documentation and application process

Preparing for Your ICC Assessment

Focus on practical boat handling under sail and power, basic navigation, understanding of COLREGS, confidence in anchoring, docking, manoeuvring, and awareness of international boating regulations. Preparation ensures students leave fully equipped to sail confidently in European waters.

Book Your ICC Assessment at Sailing School Malta

Sailing School Malta is your trusted ICC assessment provider, combining flexible scheduling, professional instruction, and hands-on experience in Malta’s ideal sailing waters. Contact the school to check availability, request pricing, or start your ICC application today.

ICC Assessment