Boat Licence in Mallorca

Anyone wishing to explore the waters around the beautiful island of Mallorca by boat with an engine of more than 15 hp should consider obtaining a boating licence. You can obtain a German boating licence in recognised boat schools in Mallorca, which is internationally recognised.

What types of driving licences are there?

If you are interested in obtaining a boating licence, you should find out about the different types of boating licences. The so-called “Sportbootführerschein See” (SBF See) is particularly relevant for driving a boat on Mallorca. With the SBF See licence, you can operate boats on coastal waters, i.e. on the open sea and in coastal waters. This applies to private sailing and motor boats as well as charter boats, although the SBF See may be subject to certain restrictions in terms of boat types and sizes in different countries - in the Balearic Islands, however, there are no restrictions on the size and weight of the boat. You are also authorised to undertake both day and night trips. If you are at least 16 years old, you will be regularly exposed to the following theoretical content in an SBF See course: Shipping law/KVR and SeeSchStrO, light guidance and sound signals, traffic separation schemes, fairways and maritime shipping lanes, buoyage and lighting, safety and distress signals, meteorology, environmental protection, propulsion engine manoeuvring under engine, terrestrial navigation, nautical charts and nautical literature, nautical equipment, compass, distances and local determinations deflection, false directions, coupling and sounding and direction finding. In addition to theory, you will spend practical hours on the boat practising knots.

Several German-speaking boating schools in Mallorca also offer the Recreational Boat Driving Licence Inland (SBF Binnen). This can be obtained in a combined course with the SBF Sea, although the inland licence is irrelevant for coastal waters. Since April 2023, this licence allows you to operate pleasure craft up to 20 metres in length on inland waterways.

If you intend to purchase or rent a larger boat, you should check whether it is equipped with a radio. If this is the case, you will need a radio licence in addition to your boat licence. On the coast or at sea, the SRC (Short Range Certificate) is required, while for inland navigation, the UKW für den Binnenschifffahrtsfunk (UBI) is required. However, it is sufficient for one person on board to possess such a radio licence.

How long does the acquisition take?

The SBF See and SBF Binnen boating licenses can be obtained within a few days in group courses. Often, you can expect three days of theory and two days of practical training, which are usually offered every two weeks. However, after the theory sessions at the boating school, you will need to consolidate your knowledge at home. A combined course takes approximately one week. Of course, you can also request a private course at a boating school of your choice.

What are the requirements for the licence?

The requirements for a boating licence are straightforward. You must be at least 16 years old, speak German (if you wish to obtain a German boating licence), undergo a medical examination, and bring a passport photo. If you possess a driving licence, you must also present it. Generally, you can attend a boating school without prior knowledge, and they will handle the formalities.

What costs are involved in getting a boat licence?

Depending on which sailing school you wish to attend, the cost of a boat licence in Mallorca amounts to approximately €700. A combined course for the SBF See and SBF Binnen costs around €800, while a private course is double that.

Why a boat license is worthwhile in Mallorca

Mallorca offers beautiful coastlines and many small coves that can be explored by boat. Among other places, you can visit the following coastal locations, for which you should inform yourself beforehand about local regulations, weather conditions and the availability of moorings:

Cala Ratjada: This harbour town in the northeast of Mallorca offers beautiful beaches and coves such as Cala Agulla and Cala Mesquida. The region is also known for its impressive caves, including the Coves d’Arta.
Port de Sóller: A picturesque harbour on the northwest coast with a charming village and an impressive mountain backdrop. You can explore the Bay of Sóller and the surrounding coves.
Portals Nous: Located near Palma, Portals Nous is known for its chic marina and its proximity to the luxurious Puerto Portals. Here, you will also find some of the island's most exclusive beaches.
Andratx: The port of Andratx is one of the largest natural harbours in the Balearic Islands. The surrounding area offers numerous coves and beaches, including the popular Cala Llamp bay.
Cala Figuera: A picturesque fishing port on the southeast coast with traditional boat houses and a charming atmosphere. The area is surrounded by steep cliffs and offers some beautiful coves.
Cala Pi: A secluded bay with turquoise waters and a picturesque beach. Cala Pi is particularly known for its natural beauty and can ideally be reached by boat.
Cala Varques: This bay on the east coast is known for its crystal-clear water and surrounding cliffs. Due to its seclusion, it is often less crowded than other beaches.
Cala Mondragó: Located in the southeast of Mallorca, this nature park features dreamlike coves, including the one named Cala Mondragó. The surrounding area is characterised by pine forests and hiking trails.

Furthermore, with a boat licence, you have the opportunity to rent a wider range of boats and, if applicable, explore the island from the sea over several days. Overall, you are more flexible in terms of your excursion planning and can spontaneously decide where you want to go without being dependent on guided tours and skippers.

Sailing schools in Mallorca

As a first point of contact for obtaining your boat licence, you can contact one of the following boat schools in Mallorca:

In summary it can be concluded that a boat licence in Mallorca can be a worthwhile investment, especially for those who value the freedom and flexibility that exploring the island's picturesque coastlines offers. In addition to pure enjoyment, the boat licence also provides safety knowledge and navigation skills that contribute to a responsible and safe boating experience. Whether you wish to discover bustling harbours, secluded bays or hidden natural wonders, the boat licence opens up a world of possibilities that go beyond the usual tourist routes.