Sportbootführerschein Binnen or See, Sportküstenschifferschein, Sportseeschifferschein or Sporthochseeschifferschein – the list of German sailing qualifications is a long one. But which licences do you actually need? Here’s an overview.
The Sportbootführerschein (SBF) Binnen and See are the entry-level German boating licences. They allow holders to operate boats on inland waterways or in coastal waters – up to three nautical miles offshore. These are the compulsory licences that every ambitious boater should have as a minimum. They are also the basic qualification charter companies expect from sailors wishing to charter a yacht.
Once you have the basic qualification, you can take things a step further with the Sportküstenschifferschein. To obtain the SKS, holders of the SBF See must provide evidence of at least 300 nautical miles of sailing experience. Some charter companies internationally require sailors to present an SKS. In addition, SKS holders can work commercially as skippers. In this case, the qualification applies up to a maximum distance of 12 nautical miles from the coast.
For more ambitious sailors, the German Sailing Association (Deutscher Segler-Verband e.V.) also offers the Sportseeschifferschein (SSS) and Sporthochseeschifferschein (SHS). These qualifications are primarily required for those wishing to work commercially as skippers, for example for a sailing school. The SSS covers sailing up to 30 nautical miles from the coast, as well as throughout the North Sea, Baltic Sea and Mediterranean. Anyone wishing to skipper over greater distances, such as on an Atlantic crossing, needs the SHS, which is valid for worldwide sailing.
For charter sailors, the Sportbootführerschein See is sufficient in most cases.
If you want to be on the safe side and develop your sailing knowledge further, the Sportküstenschifferschein is worth considering. SKS training covers the most important sailing manoeuvres and provides more in-depth navigation training.
If you already have the 300 nautical miles required to sit the exam, a week of practical training can be a good way to prepare for the practical assessment. There are various courses available for the theory exam, although it is also possible to prepare for it independently.
.The SRC (Short Range Certificate) is highly recommended for all charter sailors.
It allows you to operate a marine radio and take part in radio communications. Strictly speaking, anyone without an SRC is not permitted to operate the radio equipment.
As charter boats measuring 12 metres or more must be equipped with a radio, charter companies also require the relevant radio certificate to be presented. Without it, they may not be able to charter the boat to you.
.
Even if you usually sail smaller boats, taking the SRC exam is worthwhile. The course teaches you how international marine radio communications work, how to operate the equipment correctly and how to use it in an emergency.
The sailing qualifications you actually need for a charter will always depend on the cruising area, the yacht and the requirements of the individual charter company.
For charter sailors, the SBF See provides an important foundation. Those looking to develop their knowledge and practical skills further will be well equipped with the SKS. The SRC is also useful for charter sailors when the yacht is fitted with the relevant marine radio equipment.
When chartering abroad in particular, you should check before booking which licences and qualifications are actually accepted or required at your destination. Individual charter companies may also ask for additional evidence of your sailing experience, such as a sailing logbook.
For most charter sailors, the SBF See provides the foundation. If you want to gain more practical experience and deepen your knowledge of navigation and sailing manoeuvres, the SKS is the natural next step.
The SSS and SHS, on the other hand, are aimed primarily at sailors planning more demanding passages or those who require the relevant professional qualifications. For many charter sailors, the SRC is also an important part of preparing for their next sailing trip.
Requirements can vary depending on the cruising area, yacht and charter company. If you are planning to charter abroad, always check before booking whether your existing licences and proof of sailing experience are sufficient for your chosen yacht.
Then all that’s left is to find the right yacht. Explore our selection of sailing yachts, catamarans and motor yachts and find the perfect boat for your next holiday on the water.
Article written by
Maren Christoffer
Sailing Instructor
€ 4,040
price of the whole boat
€ 2,240
price of the whole boat
€ 1,365
price of the whole boat
€ 4,200
price of the whole boat
€ 2,625
price of the whole boat
€ 5,355
price of the whole boat
€ 1,743
price of the whole boat
€ 2,240
price of the whole boat
Our regular email newsletters include information about our boats, holiday ideas, destination insights and cultural briefings. You can unsubscribe at any time and we'll treat your data with respect, never passing on your details to third parties. Find full details of our data management in our Privacy policy page
By signing up, I agree to Master Yachting's T&C's and Privacy policy
Looking for inspiration for your next sailing holiday? Packed with insights on trending sailing destinations plus stories from expert sailors and first-timers, our brand new digital magazine - Magister Navis - will guide your way to your next sail.
View magazine
