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How to obtain a sailing license in Poland - step-by-step guide 2026
Are you wondering how to obtain a sailing license in Poland but don't know where to start? You've come to the right place - in this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to easily and stress-free obtain a sailing license in Poland.
Don't know which license to choose at the beginning? Check out our article: Which sailing license to choose?
What is a sailing license and who issues it?
A sailing license is an official document confirming your qualifications to operate a sailing yacht. In Poland, it is issued by the Polish Yachting Association (PZŻ) and it is required if you want to legally sail in marine and inland waters.
→ You will find a detailed comparison of the degrees in the article: Which sailing license to choose?
Who can obtain a sailing license? (age and conditions)
Anyone who is at least 14 years old and capable of safely participating in training or preparing for the exam on their own can obtain a yacht sailor's license. Although a sailing course is not mandatory, it provides significant support for many candidates and establishes solid foundations. No medical examinations or prior sailing experience are required to take the exam. However, it is advisable to check the detailed requirements at the chosen training center in advance.
For higher sailing degrees, such as the yacht skipper of the sea, you must be at least 18 years old and meet additional conditions, including appropriate sea experience.
You will find detailed regulations governing water tourism, including obtaining licenses, in the Regulation of the Minister of Sport and Tourism of April 9, 2013.
Path to obtaining a yacht sailor's license
The yacht sailor's license is the first and basic level of qualifications, recommended for anyone just starting their sailing adventure. Although it is not formally required to take the exam for the yacht skipper of the sea, it is definitely worth obtaining. It provides a solid foundation and a good way to safely enter the world of sailing.
Below you will find a simple path that shows step by step how to obtain a yacht sailor's license in Poland.
See more details:
What does a sailing course look like?
The sailing course for the yacht sailor's license consists of theoretical and practical parts. The theory covers basic issues such as: sailing theory, rescue, communication, signaling, and navigation. The practical part includes maneuvers performed both under sail and on engine, including approaching a person overboard and approaching and departing from the shore.
Check the detailed course program here.
You can choose a course format tailored to your needs - weekend courses, weekly courses, or in some centers, hybrid courses that combine online theory with practical water experience are available.
Sailing exam – theory and practice
The state exam applies to both candidates for the yacht sailor and the yacht skipper of the sea. It consists of two parts: theoretical (multiple-choice test) and practical.
You will find detailed exam requirements on the website of the Polish Yachting Association (PZŻ)
Good preparation for the exam is provided by sailing courses that cover both theory and practice.
Check the current dates:
What next after obtaining the license?
Do you already have a sailing license? This is a good time to take the next step and develop your skills on the water:
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go on a sea cruise,
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rent a yacht as part of a charter,
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start planning the next sailing degree,
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or simply start sailing regularly to gain experience.
If you still don't know where to go on your next cruise, check out our article Cruising the Baltic Sea - why it's worth a try? You will find inspiration for your next sea adventure.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to obtain a sailing license?
Obtaining a sailing license costs on average from 1800 to 3300 PLN (course, exam, issuance of the license).
Check the current prices of Sailcraft courses here.
Do you have to be 18 years old to obtain a sailing license?
No - for the yacht sailor's license, it is sufficient to be at least 14 years old.
The requirement to be 18 years old applies to the yacht skipper's license and the yacht captain's license.
How long does the yacht sailor's license course last?
Depending on the chosen format, the sailing course can last from two days (weekend course) to about ten days (weekly course).
Do you need to renew a sailing license?
No, the license is issued indefinitely.
Is a Polish sailing license valid abroad?
The Polish yacht sailor's license is not always automatically recognized abroad. Its acceptance depends on the regulations of the specific country and the policies of charter companies. However, it is worth emphasizing that the license is issued by the Polish Sailing Association (PZŻ) authorized by the Ministry of Sport and Tourism, which is a state administration body. Therefore, in EU countries, there are usually no problems with its acceptance.
Greater caution should be exercised when planning trips to countries outside the EU – in some of them, a Polish license may not be sufficient.
Remember: regardless of the direction of your voyage, always check the current local regulations – this is a crucial step before any trip.
When is the best time to take a sailing license course?
The sailing season in Poland usually lasts from April to the end of October. It is during these months that the best weather conditions for learning and sailing prevail, and training centers offer the most sailing courses. If you plan to obtain a yacht sailor's license, it is worth scheduling your learning and exam during this period.
Take the first step - sign up for a sailing course
A sailing license is your first step towards full independence on the water. Choose a sailing course that best suits your needs and embark on the voyage of a lifetime!
See available dates and sign up now!
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