The Recognition of RYA Qualifications in Spanish Waters – A Brief History

Understanding how RYA qualifications are recognised in Spain can be confusing, especially with changes in legislation over the years. This article explains the evolution of recognition, from early acceptance through to recent changes following Brexit.

Early Recognition of RYA Qualifications in Spain

For many years, Royal Yachting Association (RYA) qualifications have been widely accepted across Europe, including Spain.

Spanish legislation governing recreational boating qualifications is based on national laws, particularly:

• Royal Decree 875/2014
• Later updates and amendments to Spanish maritime law

Within this framework, certain foreign qualifications were recognised if they met specific criteria.

Importantly, RYA qualifications were included in Annex IX of Spanish legislation, meaning they were accepted for operating and chartering vessels in Spanish waters.

This included key certificates such as:

• RYA Powerboat Level 2
• RYA Day Skipper
• RYA Yachtmaster
• ICC (International Certificate of Competence)

The Role of the ICC

The International Certificate of Competence (ICC) was originally created to provide standardised proof of competence between countries.

• It is issued by the RYA on behalf of the UK government
• Designed for use when boating in foreign waters
• Based on international agreements such as UNECE Resolution 40

In Spain, the ICC became commonly accepted:

• By authorities as proof of competence
• By charter companies as a standard requirement

However, it is important to understand that the ICC is not a training qualification — it is simply evidence of competence.

Pre-Brexit: Full Recognition (Before 2021)

Before Brexit, the UK was part of the EU. This meant:

• RYA qualifications were treated as EU-recognised certificates
• They were widely accepted for:
  • Chartering boats
  • Operating Spanish-flagged vessels
  • General recreational boating

During this period, recognition was straightforward and rarely questioned.

Brexit Disruption (2021)

On 1 January 2021, the UK became a “third country” under EU law.

This had a direct impact:

• RYA certificates were temporarily no longer recognised by Spain
• This created confusion across the boating industry
• Charter companies and authorities were uncertain what to accept

This change was purely administrative — not related to the quality of RYA training.

Reinstatement of RYA Recognition (Mid-2021)

Following discussions between:

• The RYA
• UK Government
• Spanish maritime authorities

Spain confirmed that RYA qualifications would again be recognised.

From mid-2021:

• RYA certificates were reinstated into Spanish legislation
• Including:
  • RYA Powerboat Level 2
  • RYA Yachtmaster certificates
  • ICC

This restored normality for most recreational boaters.

Current Position in Spain

Today, the situation depends on several factors:

1. Type of Boat (Spanish vs Foreign Flag)

• Spanish-flagged boats follow Spanish national licensing rules
• Foreign-flagged boats may follow the laws of their flag state

2. Residency

• Spanish residents are generally expected to hold Spanish licences
• Visitors may use recognised foreign certificates

3. Evidence of Competence

Spanish authorities can request proof of competence at any time.

Where Does RYA Powerboat Level 2 Fit In?

The RYA Powerboat Level 2 remains one of the most practical and widely used qualifications.

• Recognised within Spanish legislation (Annex IX framework)
• Suitable for boats up to 10 metres
• Provides real, practical training (not just theory)

👉 In practice, it is widely accepted as sufficient evidence of competence in Spain.

Do You Still Need an ICC?

This is where confusion often arises.

• The ICC is recommended in some situations (especially for foreign flagged boats or chartering)
• However, it is not always legally required if you already hold an appropriate qualification

👉 In Spain, many operators use RYA Powerboat Level 2 alone as proof of competence

Key Takeaways

• RYA qualifications have been recognised in Spain for many years
• They were formally included in Spanish law (Annex IX)
• Brexit caused temporary disruption in 2021
• Recognition was reinstated later in 2021
• RYA Powerboat Level 2 remains widely accepted in Spain today

Final Thoughts

The relationship between RYA qualifications and Spanish law has evolved, but the key point remains:

👉 RYA training is respected, recognised, and widely used in Spanish waters

For boat owners and students alike, it continues to provide a practical and internationally credible pathway into boating.