Requirements and Powers of the PER (Recreational Boat Pattern)

Sailing is an exciting and rewarding activity, but it also requires great responsibility and specific knowledge to ensure safety at sea. For this reason, it is essential obtain a nautical certification that accredits the necessary training and skills to steer a pleasure boat.

He Title of Recreational Boat Skipper (PER) It is one of the most important nautical certifications required to govern a pleasure boat in Spain.

Obtaining the PER title is not only a legal obligation for those who want to sail a recreational boat, but it is also a guarantee of safety for all occupants of the boat. Training in navigation, meteorology, safety at sea and other specific subjects are essential to avoid accidents and guarantee safe and responsible navigation.

In this article, we will delve into the different responsibilities of the title of Recreational Boat Skipper and its importance for safe and responsible navigation in the waters.

What is the title of Recreational Boat Skipper?

The title of Recreational Boat Master (PER) is a nautical certification which accredits a person's training and competence to govern and operate recreational boats safely and efficiently.

This qualification covers the needs of those who seek to enjoy the world of recreational sailing, whether for personal use or to take with family and friends, allowing them to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills in aspects such as navigation, meteorology, safety, communications and basic mechanics.

The PER is also useful for those who wish to expand their knowledge in the field of nautical, as it can be a first step to continue with other higher qualifications, such as Yacht Skipper or Yacht Captain. Additionally, this degree can be beneficial for those who work or wish to work in activities related to nautical tourism or charter services.

Powers of the Skipper of Pleasure Boats

Once the PER title is obtained, the powers are varied and allow the skipper to govern a pleasure boat of up to 15 meters in length, transporting a maximum of 12 people, including himself. These powers are limited to a maximum navigation distance of 12 nautical miles from the coast and can be used for both day and night navigation.

Summarizing:

• Govern boats up to 15 meters in length.
• Day and night navigation.
• Maximum distance of 12 nautical miles from the coast.
• Transport a maximum of 12 people, including himself.

Requirements to obtain the title of Recreational Boat Skipper

To obtain the PER title, certain requirements must be met, such as:

• Be of age.
• Possess a Navigation License or have completed a specific basic navigation course.
• Pass a theoretical exam and carry out the mandatory practice.
• Demonstrate knowledge in matters of security, navigation, meteorology, among others.

It is important to highlight that obtaining this title is essential for anyone who wants to navigate a recreational boat, since lack of certification can lead to financial sanctions and fines.

Regulation of the Recreational Boat Skipper license in Spain

In Spain, the Recreational Boat Skipper (PER) qualification is regulated by the General Directorate of the Merchant Navy (DGMM), which is an organization dependent on the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda. The DGMM is responsible for establishing the standards and requirements necessary to obtain and maintain nautical qualifications, including the PER.

At the international level, the regulation of nautical qualifications It is under the supervision of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for maritime safety and the prevention of pollution from ships. The IMO establishes guidelines and recommendations for the training and certification of seafarers, including pleasure craft skippers, through the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

However, each country is responsible for implementing and adapting IMO standards and guidelines into its national legislation. In the case of Spain, this is carried out through the General Directorate of the Merchant Navy and its specific regulations regarding nautical qualifications.

In addition, some countries have bilateral or multilateral agreements to recognize nautical certifications issued by other countries, thus facilitating navigation and the use of pleasure craft in different parts of the world.

PER powers for jet skis

In the case of jet skis, the powers of the holder of a PER title are a little more restrictive. In this case, the skipper of a recreational boat with a PER title may govern jet skis without power limits, as long as they are used in the corresponding navigation area and the established safety standards are met.

Expanded powers to improve the title of Pleasure Boat Skipper

The expanded powers of the PER to navigate between the Peninsula and the Balearic Islands are obtained through an additional qualification to the basic qualification. This qualification allows PER graduates to increase their powers, being able to govern pleasure boats up to 24 meters in length and expand the navigation area up to 12 miles from the coast.

To obtain this rating, it is necessary to take a specific training course and complete a minimum of 24 hours of practical navigation. This complementary course focuses on providing additional knowledge and experience in deep-sea navigation, route planning, meteorology, safety and other aspects relevant to navigation on longer and more complex voyages, such as those carried out between the Peninsula and the Balearic Islands.

What do you need to practice as a professional with the title of Recreational Boat Skipper?

To practice as a professional with the title of Recreational Boat Skipper, it is also necessary to obtain the Basic Training in Maritime Safety certification, which is mandatory for crew members and skippers who work on commercial vessels. In addition, it is advisable to have specific training in navigation, knowledge of boat mechanics and maintenance, and safety and emergency management on board.

It is important to note that there are various employment options for a holder of a PER degree, from conducting tourist boat excursions to managing a nautical charter company.

What are the Attached Powers for the Skipper of Recreational Vessels?

Finally, it is important to mention the Annexed Attributions for the Skipper of Recreational Vessels, which are complementary to the PER title and allow the skipper to carry out specific activities. These powers may include, among others:

• Sport fishing.
• Recreational diving.
• Solo navigation.
• Carrying out long distance journeys.
• Management and operation of a nautical charter company.

To obtain these powers, it is necessary to take specific courses in each of the areas of interest and have the necessary experience in each case.

Sailing Rating Powers for the PER

The sailing qualification for the PER It is an additional certification that allows the holder of the Recreational Boat Skipper (PER) title to govern sailing vessels. This authorization is obtained through a specific practical sailing course and It is valid for other recreational boat titles.

With the sailing rating, the PER holder will be able to govern sailing vessels of up to 24 meters in length, with a maximum navigation distance of 150 nautical miles from the coast and with a maximum number of 12 people on board. In addition, you may also govern motor boats that carry auxiliary sails.

It is important to note that the sailing rating is an additional certification and is not mandatory to govern motor boats. However, if you wish to navigate sailing vessels, it is advisable to obtain this qualification to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and efficient navigation.

In summary, the title of Pleasure Boat Skipper is essential for anyone who wants to sail a pleasure boat and has a wide variety of powers, both for day and night navigation. If you wish to expand the powers, you can obtain the title of Yacht Skipper and, in addition, there are Annexed Powers that allow the holder of the PER to carry out specific activities.