RYA Licenses: France Isn’t Off-Limits

Since Brexit, UK boaters have been navigating more than just the Mediterranean – they’ve also had to navigate a sea of new rules. One of the biggest head-scratchers? Whether your RYA license is still valid in France. Spoiler alert: it depends – but don’t worry, we’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to!

What’s changed since Brexit?

Before the UK left the EU, it was all smooth sailing. The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) qualifications were generally accepted throughout EU waters, including France. But now that the UK is no longer part of the EU, British boating licenses are treated as “third-country” certificates. That means they’re not automatically recognised under EU legislation.

In practice? Some French boat rental companies now want to see an ICC (International Certificate of Compliance for Operators of Pleasure Craft) alongside your RYA license – but not all.

So... What Is the ICC?

The ICC is a United Nations-recognised certificate that proves you meet the minimum standard to safely skipper a pleasure craft in foreign waters. It's not a standalone course, but rather a certificate that’s issued based on your existing qualifications.

If you’ve passed certain RYA practical courses – like the RYA Powerboat Level 2 – you can usually apply for an ICC without any additional training. It’s a bit of paperwork, a fee, and off you go. But it’s important to remember that the ICC is only valid in countries that have signed up to the UNECE’s Resolution 40 agreement (France included).

The confusion: Is my RYA powerboat level 2 enough?

Here’s where things get murky. Technically, the RYA Powerboat Level 2 is not automatically accepted in France on its own post-Brexit. However, some rental companies in France – especially those used to dealing with British clients – will still honour it without asking for an ICC.

This creates an awkward grey zone. Some boaters show up at the marina, license in hand, and are waved on board with a cheerful “Bon voyage!”. Others are told they need to go get an ICC first – which can be a real mood sinker when you’re dreaming of rosé and Riviera sunsets.

Good news: We’ve found the friendly rental companies!

At Seascope France, we’ve taken the guesswork out of the process. We work closely with several reputable French rental companies who have confirmed that they’re happy to accept the RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate without needing the ICC.

Whether you’re hiring a boat for the day to explore the Côte d’Azur or planning a longer adventure with friends and family, we can point you in the right direction and make sure you’re booking with a company that will accept your existing license.

Want to be fully covered? Get the ICC anyway

While some companies are flexible, having an ICC in your back pocket is still a smart move – especially if you’re planning to rent in different countries. It avoids any last-minute issues, and makes you look extra professional at the marina.

You can apply for an ICC through the RYA if you already hold a recognised qualification like Powerboat Level 2. If not, don’t worry – we offer the course right here at Seascope France in sunny Antibes, and can help guide you through the process.

In summary: Don’t let the paperwork spoil your fun

To wrap it up:

• RYA Powerboat Level 2 is still accepted by some French rental companies – especially those we work with at Seascope.
• ICC is sometimes required – and always useful – but not always necessary.
• We’re here to help – and we’ve got the connections and local know-how to make sure your next boating trip goes smoothly.

So, before you set sail, give us a shout! We’ll make sure you know exactly what you need (and what you don’t) to get out on the water with confidence.

Bon voyage, captain!