What is the difference between Yacht Skipper and Yacht Captain?

For those interested in sailing pleasure boats, The difference between a yacht skipper and a yacht captain goes beyond simple qualifications.. These two qualifications raise doubts when choosing and continuing to expand powers with regard to recreational boats.

In fact, these points of contrast represent a change in category when it comes to sailing in pleasure boats, which is why it is common for both training sessions to be carried out. We tell you, one by one, the main differences between a yacht captain and a yacht skipper.

What are a yacht skipper and a yacht captain?

He yacht pattern It is a certification that increases the functions of those who have previously obtained the title of pleasure boat skipper, also known as PER. It is usually the main option when it comes to continuity to this training, since it is the natural evolution of it.

See more about the Yacht Skipper Course

At the same time, yacht skippers also have greater powers than pleasure boat skippers. around aspects as relevant as the navigation distance from the coast.

On the other hand, the next step to the title of yacht skipper is that of yacht captain. In this case we talk about the highest certification when it comes to pleasure boats, which means a new increase in professional powers and navigation permits for the purposes of the distance to travel.

See more about the Yacht Captain Course

As we will see below, there are also logical variations in the development of training for one degree and another, as well as in the requirements required to obtain it. 

In short, although we are talking about related certificates, the difference between a yacht skipper and a yacht captain is notable in many aspects.

Differences between yacht skipper and yacht captain

Thus, for those seeking to develop professionally in the maritime field, and more specifically in the recreational boat sector, the natural path begins with the PER and ends with the title of yacht captain, previously passing through training as a skipper. yacht. To understand this process it is convenient to know the variants between one certificate and another.

Fundamentally There are four main sources of differences between yacht skipper and yacht captain. In this sense, the powers, permits, training and prerequisites are the aspects that contrast the most when comparing both degrees. Let's look at each of these distinctions in detail.

Difference in powers

If we talk about powers, beyond possible additional authorizations that can be obtained in either case, In this sense there is only one difference between yacht skipper and yacht captain: the distance they can travel, which in the first case is up to a maximum of 150 miles from the coast and in the second there is no geographical limitation.

Differences in training

The training of skipper and yacht captain is similar in terms of the theoretical part, which is not mandatory beyond passing the exam, although the knowledge is diverse.

In the case of the practical part, the total number of hours of navigation is 48 in both cases, including 14 hours of night navigation and up to 6 hours of rest; the difference? Yacht captain training focuses on others aspects such as star observation and navigation without any type of reference on land and the problems that are added in the yacht captain exam on these topics.

Difference in prerequisites

In the case of the prerequisites required to take these training courses, the differences are minimal between yacht skipper and yacht captain. To obtain either of the two certificates it is essential to be of legal age and pass the relevant medical tests; However, in the first case it is required to have passed the PER and, in the second, the title of yacht master.

Yacht Skipper or Yacht Captain: What qualification to obtain?

In all nautical training, the main objective is to be able to certify your knowledge to obtain a title that qualifies you to be able to navigate where you want or need to navigate, with the boat you have and if we talk about professional titles, then offering services.

That being said, in the end The main difference between a yacht skipper and a yacht captain is as subtle as it is relevant when it comes to sailing.. And, while with the title of yacht captain there is no limitation on the sailing distance, with the title of yacht master it is not allowed to exceed 150 nautical miles in distance from the coast.

The yacht skipper title will allow you to navigate the Mediterranean without any type of limitation but you will not be able to cross the Atlantic. Another example would be if you want to pursue a professional career. To continue advancing and be able to access higher titles such as Professional Skipper of Recreational Boats, you are required to previously have the recreational titles PER, Skipper and Captain. 

This is where the answer to the question comes from: What kind of boss do you want to be?