Courtney Thomas wrote:
BrianH wrote:
Evan Gatehouse wrote:
ET wrote:
I wonder what are documents that one has need to make a
circumnavigation. (I know that people of France one a different
regimentation that us to Canada, it is why if you answer me, to
Specify from where you come.

The only documents officials wanted to see in all the Central
American countries (Mexico/El Salvador/Costa Rica/Guatemala) we
visited we

- crew passports
- boat registration
(we had a Canadian license, for vessels 15 Gross Tons)

In Europe, particularly Mediterranean countries, you will be asked for
proof of third party insurance (there is a standard 'blue form') and a
certificate of competence, in addition to the above.

What is the procedure for obtaining a "certificate of competence", please ?
Thank you,
Courtney

It depends on your nationality and whatever sailing
certificate is valid in your country, something that shows
you have been examined for sailing competence. In other
words, you should have a document issued by the country of
your passport when you arrive at a foreign port of entry.

The European German-speaking countries (Germany, Austria and
Switzerland) have quite a rigorous skipper's certification
requiring a certain number of sea miles to qualify, as well
as examinations. But in my experience, the entry procedures
of some of the European countries accept most any sort of
official-looking document that states that the bearer has
passed some sort of sailing test.

Others state that they require it in their regulations but
don't even ask to see it.

Countries where no formal certificate is necessary to go to
sea in non-commercial command of a pleasure vessel, may have
a simple certificate to enable skippers to cruise abroad -
the UK has the ICC (International Certificate of
Competence), which is not difficult to obtain, unlike the
Yachtmaster certificate that is. Both are accepted in all
countries.

In Croatia they ask for it but if the skipper doesn't have
one then the harbourmaster is tasked to issue one after a
test - for a fee, which is what they are really interested in.

Hope this helps. BrianH.