When cruising in European waters or the Caribbean on my own or a rented vessel I'm told we need an ICC.
Is there an International Certificate of Operator Competency available in Canada?
Yes. In Europe there are multi-level Certificates of Operator Competency that are acquired by successfully completing both theoretical and practical on-the-water tests.
In Canada there are a number of schools that offer ICC courses that are recognized in Europe and the Caribbean
Currently there are no formal cross recognition agreements between Canada and European or Caribbean countries.
ISPA is well regarded by Transport Canada for our recreational boating program, and is currently in review to offer other Marine Certifications.
Interestingly, some Canadian cruisers who have been challenged in both the Mediterranean and Caribbean waters and asked to show proof of Operator Competency have had their Pleasure Craft Operator Cards accepted even though they represent a level of proficiency far below the International standards. It seems to be the official Canadian Government logo on the PCO Card that does the trick.
We have had luck with the ISPA program in Eurpoe when they see our standards and competencies far exceed those of the ICC offered in Europe.
Do I have to have an ICC?
A. Some countries will insist you have an ICC whilst in other countries an ICC may not be needed at all. The requirement may also differ between coastal waters and inland waters within a country.
Can I use the ICC outside Europe?
A. The ICC is not a global qualification. Even within Europe the ICC’s validity is determined by the issuing country and by the country you are visiting. At the discretion of countries elsewhere in the world it may be acceptable evidence of competence.
Is there an International Certificate of Operator Competency available in Canada?
Yes. In Europe there are multi-level Certificates of Operator Competency that are acquired by successfully completing both theoretical and practical on-the-water tests.
In Canada there are a number of schools that offer ICC courses that are recognized in Europe and the Caribbean
Currently there are no formal cross recognition agreements between Canada and European or Caribbean countries.
ISPA is well regarded by Transport Canada for our recreational boating program, and is currently in review to offer other Marine Certifications.
Interestingly, some Canadian cruisers who have been challenged in both the Mediterranean and Caribbean waters and asked to show proof of Operator Competency have had their Pleasure Craft Operator Cards accepted even though they represent a level of proficiency far below the International standards. It seems to be the official Canadian Government logo on the PCO Card that does the trick.
We have had luck with the ISPA program in Eurpoe when they see our standards and competencies far exceed those of the ICC offered in Europe.
Do I have to have an ICC?
A. Some countries will insist you have an ICC whilst in other countries an ICC may not be needed at all. The requirement may also differ between coastal waters and inland waters within a country.
Can I use the ICC outside Europe?
A. The ICC is not a global qualification. Even within Europe the ICC’s validity is determined by the issuing country and by the country you are visiting. At the discretion of countries elsewhere in the world it may be acceptable evidence of competence.
