ISSA Inshore Skipper Certificate

ISSA Inshore Skipper Sail Course

YOUR LICENSE TO FREEDOM ON THE SEAS

Transition from passenger to confident skipper. Intensive live-aboard training in the sheltered waters of the Ionian.

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Duration 6 days
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Max People Up to 5 students
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Min Age From 16 years
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Location Lefkas, Greece
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Certificate ISSA Certificate

The Challenge

"Tired of Being Just a Passenger?"

Sailing as a guest is fun, but relying on others to make decisions limits your freedom. Maybe you dream of chartering a yacht for your family, but the thought of docking a 45ft boat, navigating at sea, or handling a sudden wind shift feels overwhelming. Without a recognized license and the right training, the helm feels like a forbidden zone.

The Solution

"From Zero to Captain in 1 Week"

This course is your transition from passenger to commander. We don't just teach you to pass an exam; we train you to manage a yacht. You will learn to dock stern-to in Mediterranean harbors, read the weather, and navigate safely day and night. By the end of this week, you won't just hold a licenseβ€”you will hold the confidence to skipper your own yacht anywhere in the world.

Overview

The Gold Standard for Recreational Sailing

The ISSA Inshore Skipper is the most popular entry-level skipper's license. It qualifies you to skipper sailing yachts up to 24 meters (78ft) in coastal waters (up to 20 miles offshore), both day and night.

This intensive hands-on course covers everything from engine checks and sail trimming to complex navigation and emergency procedures. It is fully ICC (International Certificate of Competence) compliant, making it the perfect license for chartering holidays in the Mediterranean and beyond.

Course Outline

What You Will Master

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Yacht Handling

  • βœ“ Mediterranean Mooring: Stern-to docking with anchors and long lines.
  • βœ“ Power Maneuvering: Turning in tight spaces and "prop walk" control.
  • βœ“ Anchoring: Selecting the right spot and holding ground.
  • βœ“ Sail Trim: Hoisting, reefing, and handling sails at all angles.
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Navigation & Rules

  • βœ“ Terrestrial Navigation: Reading paper charts and plotting courses.
  • βœ“ Electronics: Using GPS and Chartplotters effectively.
  • βœ“ Collision Regulations: Who has right of way (COLREGs).
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Safety & Seamanship

  • βœ“ Man Overboard (MOB): Recovery drills under sail and engine.
  • βœ“ Meteorology: Reading weather forecasts and the Beaufort scale.
  • βœ“ Engine Checks: Daily maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
Requirements

Prerequisites

βœ“ No Previous Experience Required
βœ“ Minimum Age 16 Years
βœ“ Must Be Able to Swim
From Zero to Hero in one week!

What is Included in Your Course

  • βœ“ Training by suitably qualified and experienced Sail Training ISSA instructors
  • βœ“ Live-aboard Course format
  • βœ“ Yacht and equipment suitable for course level (sleeping space in cabin or salon)
  • βœ“ 5 days training + 1 extra day on board
  • βœ“ Official Training Materials
  • βœ“ Self-study theory guidance
  • βœ“ Use of reference materials and navigational equipment during course

International Certificates

ISSA licenses are recognized by leading charter and insurance companies worldwide, giving you access to charter bareboat yachts globally.

With an ISSA Inshore Skipper license, you can operate a boat up to 24m in coastal waters up to 20 nautical miles offshore, both during day and night.

Note: ISSA skipper licenses have no expiry date!

ISSA Inshore Skipper License Front License Front
ISSA Inshore Skipper License Back License Back
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Course Availability

Start Date End Date Availability Price From Info Action
October 10, 2026 October 17, 2026 AVAILABLE €1400 4 spots left
October 17, 2026 October 24, 2026 AVAILABLE €1300 4 spots left

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I learn the theory?

We recommend reading the ISSA Inshore Skipper handbook before arrival. We also offer a 4h online training with one of our instructors – 250€ fee apply. During the week, we combine practical sailing during the day with short theory sessions.

What should I expect from the course?

You will be part of the Inshore Skipper Sailing Course and you will get hands on training on the fundamentals of skippering a yacht. Daily intensive training to gain experience and self confidence to navigate a sailing boat.

What comes after the course?

Upon passing the exams, you receive your official ISSA credentials, allowing you to skipper bareboat yachts or progress to Offshore Skipper training or Catamaran Training Endorsement.

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 5 students per boat, every student gets maximum helm time and practice daily.

Do the certificates expire?

Unlike some other certifications that require renewal every 5 years, the ISSA Inshore Skipper 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!

Guest Stories

What Our Guests Say

Real stories from charter guests and sailing students

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We worked with SAIL2DAY to plan our dream Greece vacation, and it exceeded all expectations. As a family of seven new to sailing, we felt completely at ease. The catamaran was modern, spotless, and fully provisioned.

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Julie
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ Canada
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The catamaran was beautiful, the atmosphere was fantastic, and the whole experience exceeded our expectations. We enjoyed stunning views, great hospitality, delicious food and a truly memorable week on the water.

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Markus
πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺ Germany
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The communication and customer service is second to none. She greeted us off the transfer and made check in extremely easy, she organised taxis and was on the end of a txt if we needed her!

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Naomi
πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§ United Kingdom
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Very recommended for a great experience overall and professional training. Had a week-long course for a sailing license. Our captain gave us great lessons and real-life tips on how to love yachting.

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Nazar
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦ Ukraine
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We had a great time in Lefkas. Nice boat. We would like to thank Christiana and her team for the quick and early check-in. It was very relaxed, not busy. Hope to see you again!

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Brigitta
πŸ‡³πŸ‡± Netherlands
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