What's this exam about?
Yachtmaster A is an internationally recognised, high-level maritime qualification: it entitles you to operate vessels up to 100 GT in unrestricted waters — sailboats, catamarans, and motor yachts. A true offshore licence, for those who want to go beyond coastal sailing and handle larger vessels.
The certificate is issued by the Croatian maritime authority and accepted worldwide. Whether you're planning to sail the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, it opens the door to exotic destinations and more prestigious charters.
This is not an exam for beginners. It's recommended for those who already have sea experience and the appropriate previous qualification. Basic English is also required — this is an international licence, and much of the nautical terminology is in English.
During the preparation, we cover the key topics for an offshore yacht captain's qualification: advanced navigation and passage planning, marine meteorology, a deeper understanding of the COLREGs, and the basics of GMDSS radio communication. Beyond the theory, the practical training becomes more advanced too: over several days of sailing, we practice maneuvering larger vessels, offshore navigation, and emergency procedures in real conditions — the situations a captain of a yacht up to 100 GT must handle with confidence.
The preparation and exam take place in Zadar, in English or German. The price includes the full preparation, study materials, exam fee, medical examination, and all administration. You only need to focus on the exam — leave the organization and paperwork to me.
- —Sailboat, catamaran, and motor yacht
- —Vessel size up to 100 GT — yachts up to 30 meters
- —Valid on every sea in the world
- —Sail any distance from shore
- —Passenger capacity: max. 12 + crew
- —Authorizes VHF radio operation
- —Minimum age: 18
You've been sailing for years, and you can feel that coastal sailing has become too limiting for you. You want a larger yacht, more distant waters, more serious charter trips — and a qualification that carries weight around the world.
Fill in the enquiry form or give me a call — I'll get back to you within a day and we'll go through the details together.
You'll receive all the study materials and personal preparation to guide you through. You can keep asking questions until everything falls into place.
Show up for the exam. The preparation is thorough and practical, so by the time the day comes, you'll know exactly what to expect and walk in with confidence.
After the exam, your licence will be sent to you by post. It usually arrives in about two weeks. Once you receive it, where you sail is entirely up to you.
What are the prerequisites for the Yachtmaster A exam?+
The only official requirements are being at least 18 years old and passing the medical fitness examination. A previous boating qualification is not officially required, but due to the seriousness of the exam, it is strongly recommended — it is best to start with some sea experience and a lower-level boating licence, such as B or C.
What is the difference between Category C and Yachtmaster A?+
Category C covers vessels up to 18 meters, while Yachtmaster A allows you to operate larger yachts, up to 100 GT. Both have international geographical validity; the main difference is the vessel size and the professional level.
What does the Yachtmaster A licence allow me to do?+
Yachtmaster A allows you to operate yachts up to 100 GT — up to approximately 30 meters — including sailboats, catamarans, and motor yachts. There are no geographical restrictions: it is valid anywhere from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean. You may carry up to 12 passengers in addition to the crew, within the limits stated in the vessel's documents.
How long do the preparation and exam take?+
The full program takes 8 days: 5 days of theoretical preparation and 3 days of practical sailing training on the water. The exam follows after that.
What language is the exam conducted in?+
The preparation is conducted in English or German, while the exam itself is in English — the common language of the maritime world. Basic English is enough: we practice the key nautical vocabulary together during the preparation, so you feel comfortable with it by the time of the exam.
What documents are needed for the exam?+
A valid ID card or passport, plus one passport photo, 3×3.5 cm. I handle everything else for you — registration, administration, and official paperwork.
When will I receive the licence?+
After the exam, the harbourmaster's office will mail the licence to you — it takes about 2 weeks, and it will arrive in your mailbox. You do not need to do anything else; I handle the administration for you.
How long is the Yachtmaster A valid for?+
The licence must be renewed every 5 years. This does not mean taking another exam, only a new medical fitness check, which extends the validity of the licence. The renewal process is simple, and I'm happy to help when the time comes — just send me a message, and I'll take care of it.
What is included in the price?+
The price includes the preparation, exam fee, study materials, medical examination, and full administration. You only need to focus on the exam — leave the rest to me.
Get in Touch / Register
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