Learn why an ISSA certification is globally recognized, valid for life, and your key to chartering bareboat yachts in the Mediterranean and worldwide.
"Will My License Be Accepted?"
This is the #1 question new sailors ask. You don't just want a piece of paper; you want the freedom to charter a yacht in Greece, Croatia, the Caribbean, or Thailand without being turned away at the charter base. In a confusing world of different national licenses, you need a certification that speaks the international language of the sea.
"One Standard. Global Access."
The International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA) is the oldest international sailing organization in the world, founded in 1969. Unlike national bodies that focus on local rules, ISSA was built from the ground up to create a universal standard of competence. An ISSA certificate proves to charter companies and port authorities that you possess the practical skills to command a vessel safely, regardless of which ocean you are sailing.
More Than 50 Years of Excellence. Founded in 1969 in London and Paris, the ISSA was the first organization to introduce a standardized international training scheme. While other associations are national bodies that expanded internationally, ISSA is—and always has been—an international federation. Its mission is simple: to standardize sailing education across borders. Today, ISSA includes accredited schools worldwide, from the Mediterranean to Australia, ensuring that a skipper trained in Greece meets the same rigorous safety standards as one trained in the UK or Brazil.
ISSA certificates are widely recognized by charter companies and insurance agencies worldwide. Whether you are planning a holiday in the Mediterranean (Greece, Croatia, Italy), the Caribbean, or Southeast Asia, your license serves as valid proof of competency.
Unlike some national licenses that require expensive renewals, recreational ISSA certificates (Inshore, Offshore, Master) are valid for life. Once you earn your rank, it is yours forever.
The ISSA training program is fully aligned with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Resolution 40. This means the standards for the ISSA Inshore Skipper are equivalent to the ICC (International Certificate of Competence), the primary document required for sailing in European waters.
ISSA training emphasizes ability over bureaucracy. Examiners focus on your actual handling skills—docking, navigation, and seamanship—rather than just memorizing local regulations that don't apply internationally.
Yes. SAIL2DAY is a fully accredited ISSA sailing school. Our instructors are certified examiners, and we are authorized to issue official ISSA licenses directly upon your successful completion of the course.
Some of our courses are ICC compliant, ensuring that you meet the international standards for sailing proficiency around Europe.
Neither is "better"—they are different. The RYA (Royal Yachting Association) is a UK national system that is excellent but heavily focused on tidal waters and British regulations. ISSA is an international system designed for the global charter market. If you plan to sail primarily in the Mediterranean or Caribbean, ISSA is often the more practical and streamlined choice.
Not sure where to start to learn to sail?
Our sailing school and instructors are certified by ISSA Sailing Schools Association and provide Crew, Skipper & VHF Certificates that are valid for life.
Our instructors are dedicated to help you gain and improve your skills in sailing, docking, manoeuvring and more, from theory to practice.
ISSA Certificates are globally recognized and valid for life. Charter a yacht or skipper your own boat. Inshore Skipper (ICC), VHF Radio, Offshore Skipper.
Whether you are a newcomer or an experienced sailing enthusiast, we are here to support and guide you, to achieve your goals.
Our base in Lefkada, Greece is an ideal destination, carefully chosen to provide you with an unforgettable, safe and seamless sailing training experience!
Real stories from charter guests and sailing students
Protected from all sides, Vliho Bay in Lefkada offers calm waters and instant access to the South Ionian island archipelago.
Location: Vliho, Lefkada Island, Greece
Coordinates: 38°41'N 20°43'E
Operating Season: April – October
Google Maps: Sail2day Lefkada base
Charter Base Info