It would help if you indicated where you want the "official certification." For example,
if you're in the USA, you might be able to get a "6-pak" (OUPV) or a Limited Master. The
required seatime can be "self certified" if you own your own boat. Thus you don't have to
show a log book, but proof of ownership over the appropriate time period. If your time is
on Other Peoples' Boats you need a form signed by the boat owner - this is a problem if
days are scattered over space and time. You may find you can self-certify for an "Inland"
license, but are unable to round up the required "offshore" days. In addition, there is a
test that is challenging, though it shouldn't be too hard for an experienced sailor.
There are sundry other requirements - a physical, background check, drug test, etc. The
license is required anytime there are paying passengers, including some situations that
might appear to be "cost sharing" arrangements.

Other counties have different systems. The British "Yachtmaster" license is a bit less
stringent on seatime (though I don't know how you prove time) but has a real, on the water
test.

-jeff

"Garry Beattie" wrote in message
u...
Hi Guys.

I have been sailing for a stack of years, on anything from a 16' Hobie to an
80 foot maxi.

I wouldn't mind now doing some courses to gain official certification as a
skipper etc.

I often hear people say that every time you go out in a boat it all counts
towards your hours and you can log it down as experience.

My question is "Log it where?" Do I need to commence a course before
starting to log my experience?

When I got my pilots licence I also got a log book and I do log all my hours
in it. Is there something similar for boating?

Don't get me wrong, I am not a ****** and believe me, every time I even look
at a boat I learn something new, but I do have enough experience now to be
able to take a yacht out tomorrow and deliver it across the Pacific (weather
permitting!)

I know that but I have nothing that officially says that I can.

What is the next step??
--
Garry Beattie
Ocean Spirit Trailer Sailer &
Small Yacht Cruising Emagazine
www.ocean-spirit.com