Boating license in Mallorca

If you want to explore the waters around the beautiful island of Mallorca with a boat that has more than 15 hp, you should consider obtaining a boating license. You can obtain a German boating license, which is internationally recognized, at accredited boating schools in Mallorca.

What types of driver's licenses are there?

If you are interested in obtaining a boating license, you should find out about the different types of boating licenses available. The so-called "Sportbootführerschein See" (SBF See) is particularly relevant for steering a boat in Mallorca. With the SBF See, you can steer boats in 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 regarding boat types and sizes in different countries – however, there are no restrictions regarding the size and weight of the boat in the Balearic Islands. You are also authorized to sail both during the day and at night. Provided you are at least 16 years old, you will regularly encounter the following theoretical content in an SBF See course: Maritime law/KVR and SeeSchStrO, lights and sound signals, traffic separation zones, fairways and maritime shipping lanes, buoyage and lighting, safety and distress signals, meteorology, environmental protection, propulsion engines, maneuvering under engine power, terrestrial navigation, nautical charts and nautical literature, nautical instruments, compass, distances and position determination, deflection, misdirection, coupling and sounding, and bearing. In addition to the theory, you will spend practical hours on the boat, where you will also practice knots.

Several German-speaking boating schools in Mallorca also offer the inland recreational boat license (SBF Binnen). This can be obtained in a combined course with the SBF See, although the inland license is irrelevant for coastal waters. With this license, you will be able to operate recreational boats up to 20 meters in length on inland waterways from April 2023.

If you want to buy or rent a larger boat, you should find out whether it is equipped with a radio. If this is the case, you will need a radio license in addition to your boat license. The SRC (Short Range Certificate) is required on the coast or at sea, and the UKW for inland waterway radio (UBI) is required for inland waterway navigation. However, it is sufficient for one person on board to have such a radio license.

How long does the acquisition take?

The SBF Sea and SBF Inland driving licenses can be obtained in group courses within a few days. You can often expect three days of theory and two days of practical training, which are usually offered every two weeks. However, after completing the theory part at the boating school, you will need to consolidate your knowledge at home. A combination course lasts about a week. Of course, you can also request a private course at the boating school of your choice.

What are the requirements for the license?

The requirements for a boating license are straightforward. You must be at least 16 years old, speak German (if you want to obtain a German boating license), undergo a medical examination, and bring a passport photo. If you have a driver's license, you must also present it. In principle, you can go to a boating school without any prior knowledge, and they will take care of the formalities.

What costs will I incur for a boat license?

Depending on which boating school you would like to attend, the cost of a boating license in Mallorca is approximately $700. A combined course for the SBF Sea and SBF Inland licenses costs around $800, while a private course costs twice as much.

Why it is worthwhile to obtain a boat license in Mallorca

Mallorca offers beautiful coastlines and many small bays that can be explored by boat. Among other places, you can visit the following coastal towns, but you should check local regulations, weather conditions, and the availability of moorings beforehand:

Cala Ratjada: This port 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 harbor on the northwest coast with a charming village and impressive mountain scenery. You can explore the bay of Sóller and the surrounding bays.
Portals Nous: Located near Palma, Portals Nous is known for its chic marina and 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 harbors in the Balearic Islands. The surrounding area offers numerous coves and beaches, including the popular Cala Llamp cove.
Cala Figuera: A picturesque fishing port on the southeast coast with traditional boathouses and a charming atmosphere. The area is surrounded by steep cliffs and offers several beautiful bays.
Cala Pi: A secluded cove with turquoise waters and a picturesque beach. Cala Pi is particularly known for its natural beauty and is best reached by boat.
Cala Varques: This cove on the east coast is known for its crystal clear waters and surrounding cliffs. Due to its remoteness, it is often less crowded than other beaches.
Cala Mondragó: This nature park is located in the southeast of Mallorca and features beautiful bays, including Cala Mondragó, which shares the same name. The surrounding area is characterized by pine forests and hiking trails.

In addition, with a boat license, you have the option of renting a wider range of boats and, if desired, exploring the island from the sea for several days. Overall, you are more flexible in terms of planning your excursions and can decide spontaneously where you want to go without having to rely on guided tours and skippers.

Boating schools in Mallorca

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

In summary, obtaining a boat license in Mallorca can be a worthwhile investment, especially for those who appreciate the freedom and flexibility that comes with exploring the island's picturesque coastline. In addition to pure enjoyment, a boating license also provides safety knowledge and navigation skills that contribute to a responsible and safe boating experience. Whether you want to discover bustling harbors, secluded coves, or hidden natural wonders, a boating license opens up a world of possibilities beyond the usual tourist routes.