ISSA Master of Yacht Sail Certificate

Master Sailing

COMMAND ANY YACHT, ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD

The ultimate achievement for the private yachtsman. Comprehensive training focusing on total responsibility, advanced seamanship, and international passage making.

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Duration 6 days
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Max People Up to 3 students
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Min Age From 18 years
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Location Lefkas, Greece
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Certificate ISSA Certificate

The Challenge

"Beyond the Horizon"

You are an expert sailor. You have logged the miles, weathered the storms, and crossed the seas. But true mastery isn't just about handling the boatβ€”it's about handling the voyage. Managing a 24m vessel, dealing with international maritime law, navigating by the stars when electronics fail, and keeping a crew safe during a crossing requires a level of knowledge few skippers ever attain.

The Solution

"The PhD of Recreational Sailing"

This is the highest qualification in the ISSA recreational scheme. It validates your ability to command yachts up to 200GT in any waters, anywhere in the world. We move beyond "how to sail" and focus on "how to manage." From celestial navigation to advanced stability and maritime law, this certification proves you are not just a skipperβ€”you are a Master.

Overview

The Ultimate Achievement for the Private Yachtsman

The ISSA Master of Yacht is the gold standard for recreational sailors who own or command large sailing yachts (up to 200 GT). Unlike the Offshore license, which focuses on the act of sailing, the Master of Yacht focuses on the total responsibility of the yacht.

This prestigious certification covers the highest level of seamanship, navigation, and legal knowledge. It is designed for those who wish to circumnavigate the globe or command large yachts with the confidence of a professional, even if their goal remains recreational.

Course Outline

What you will Master

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Navigation

  • βœ“ Navigation: Using a sextant to fix position by Sun, Moon, and Stars.
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Passage Planning

  • βœ“ Passage Planning: Advanced routing, and fuel management.
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Meteorology

  • βœ“ Meteorology: Analyzing synoptic charts and predicting tropical revolving storms.
Requirements

Prerequisites

βœ“ Valid Offshore Skipper License
βœ“ VHF/SRC Radio License
βœ“ First Aid Certificate
Logged Sea Miles: Min. 3,000 NM

What is Included in Your Course

  • βœ“ Training by suitably qualified and experienced Sail Training ISSA instructors for the level of course
  • βœ“ Live Abroad Course
  • βœ“ Yacht and equipment suitable for the level of course (Yacht type / model is not guaranteed) and a sleeping space in a cabin or salon
  • βœ“ 5 days training + 1 extra day on board
  • βœ“ Training Materials
  • βœ“ Study Theory by yourself
  • βœ“ Use of reference materials and navigational equipment during the course. Note these must be returned at the end of the course

International Certificates

ISSA licenses are recognized by most leading charter and insurance companies, giving you the access to charter yachts around the world.

With ISSA Master of Yacht license you can operate a boat up to 24 m, with no limits of miles offshore, both during the day and night.

Note: ISSA skipper license has no expiry date!

ISSA Master of Yacht License Front License Front
ISSA Master of Yacht License Back License Back
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Course Availability

Start Date End Date Availability Price From Info Action
October 24, 2026 October 31, 2026 AVAILABLE €TBD AVAILABLE

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I learn the theory?

We recommend reading the theory before your arrival. We also offer a 4h online training with one of our instructors – 250€ fee apply.

What should I expect from the course?

You will be part of the Master of Yacht Sail Course covering high-level seamanship, celestial navigation, passage planning, and total command responsibility of vessels up to 200 GT.

What comes after the course?

Upon passing the exams and fulfilling sea mile requirements, you receive your official ISSA Master of Yacht credentials with no limit on miles offshore.

How much time is needed for the issuance of the certificates?

Digital confirmation is issued approximately one week upon completion, with physical plastic cards mailed 20-30 days after course sign-off.

Will I practice enough?

Yes. With a strict limit of up to 3 students per boat, every student receives concentrated, individual hands-on instruction.

Do the certificates expire?

Unlike some other certifications that require renewal every 5 years, the ISSA Master of Yacht Sail certificate is valid for life.

What are the next steps after getting my license?

In SAIL2DAY CLUB we offer support to all of our students after completing their training / getting their licenses. You will be able to participate in some of our more advanced or specific trainings, take part in an assisted sailing holiday trip or charter a boat from our fleet or from our partners.

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Why Choose Us

for your Skipper Courses?

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.

Certified & Experienced
Instructors

Our instructors are dedicated to help you gain and improve your skills in sailing, docking, manoeuvring and more, from theory to practice.

ISSA Certificates
Valid for Life

ISSA Certificates are globally recognized and valid for life. Charter a yacht or skipper your own boat. Inshore Skipper (ICC), VHF Radio, Offshore Skipper.

Ongoing Support to achieve
your Goals

Whether you are a newcomer or an experienced sailing enthusiast, we are here to support and guide you, to achieve your goals.

Ideal Sailing Training
Destination

Our base in Lefkada, Greece is an ideal destination, carefully chosen to provide you with an unforgettable, safe and seamless sailing training experience!

Sail2day private pontoon, Vliho Bay, Lefkada
Our Home Base

Vliho Bay, Lefkada

Protected from all sides, Vliho Bay in Lefkada offers calm waters and instant access to the South Ionian island archipelago.

  • Direct departure to Meganisi, Fiskardo, and Kioni
  • 45-minute transfer from PVK (Preveza) Airport
  • Private pontoon facilities, water, refueling and provisioning

Base Coordinates & Access

Location: Vliho, Lefkada Island, Greece

Coordinates: 38Β°41'N 20Β°43'E

Operating Season: April – October

Google Maps: Sail2day Lefkada base

Charter Base Info