Vacation time in Mallorca is the perfect opportunity to obtain a boat license, combining the pleasant island atmosphere with the practical skills to explore the turquoise coastlines independently. With the right license, you can turn your holiday into an unforgettable maritime adventure, taking command of your own boat and charting your path around one of Europe’s premier sailing destinations.

Having a sailing license in Mallorca unlocks the freedom, peace, and tranquillity that many dream of when gazing at the boats anchored off the island’s beaches. For newcomers, entering the boating world may seem daunting, but with Mallorca’s excellent sailing schools and friendly environment, obtaining a license is easier and more affordable than most imagine. In fact, you can get a basic sailing or motorboat license in just a few days, and chartering a boat often costs no more than a night in a hotel. With over 300 days of sunshine, steady winds without rough seas, beautiful harbors, and world-class regattas like the Copa del Rey, Mallorca is truly a haven for sailing and boating enthusiasts.

The Experience of Boating Freedom

Mallorca’s coastline is renowned as one of Europe’s top sailing destinations, offering well-equipped harbors and endless opportunities for adventure. Being able to steer your own vessel means you can uncover dreamy bays and coves, share the journey with friends, and enjoy total independence on the water. The island’s seafaring culture is strong, as evidenced by its regatta scene and sporting stars, making Mallorca the perfect place to start your nautical journey.​

License Types and Time Commitment

• For small boats (motor up to 5 meters/15 hp, sail up to 6 meters), you can operate within 2 nautical miles of the coast without a license, limited to day trips.
• The “Licencia de Navegación” (basic navigation license) offers an entry-level pathway, requiring only a six-hour course: four hours practical, two theoretical, typically done in a single day
• “Patrón de Navegación Básica” (PNB): For boats up to 8 meters and up to 5 miles offshore, needing a shorter multi-day course.
• “Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo” (PER): For boats up to 15 meters and extended coastal navigation, involving a longer (3-5 days) course
• Advanced licenses (Yacht Skipper, Yacht Captain) allow larger boats and offshore trips, usually requiring more extensive training and exams

Most Mallorca schools also offer internationally recognized qualifications, especially RYA certificates for English speakers and German SBF licenses for those from Germany or Switzerland. These can sometimes be completed in condensed courses, making them ideal for vacationers

Boat Courses for Foreigners

Foreigners are very welcome at Mallorca’s boat and sailing schools. Instruction is often available in English, German, and Spanish, with some schools offering further language support upon request. Many schools are used to preparing international students for both Spanish and overseas boating certifications, and can guide you on recognition of existing licenses for chartering

Top Friendly Boat & Sailing Schools

Calvià Area

• KIWI Mallorca (Puerto Portals): Motor/sail licenses, English spoken, great reviews, quick courses
• Balearic Sea School (Puerto Portals): Renowned for English-based courses, friendly to international students
• Med Sea School: English/German options, patient instructors, high success rate

Palma

• Palma Sea School: “RYA Day Skipper” and other courses for all levels, flexible schedules, top reviews, instruction in English
• Mallorca Sailing Academy: RYA certificates, English focus, also accommodates other languages
• Palma Powerboat Training: Motor courses in English, especially Powerboat Level 2, tailored for tourists

Other Notable Choices

• Port Calanova National Sailing School: Spanish and English, family-friendly, includes watersports packages
• Mallorca Boatcharter School: German and English instruction, coastal skipper courses
• Spain Boat License: Multilingual, easy booking and flexibility for vacationers
• Sunbonoo Sailing School: From beginner to advanced, many German/English options

Why choose Mallorca to obtain your sailing license or motor license?

With recognized schools, approachable instructors, beautiful weather, and affordable charter options, Mallorca makes achieving your boating license simple, even for complete beginners. Being able to steer your own boat opens up an entirely new perspective on the island’s beauty and serenity, transforming a regular holiday into a life-changing adventure.