To become a skipper and get a yacht license, you need to train in a yacht school and pass an exam. Almost like with a car.
This will allow you to charter yachts worldwide, and take family and friends to explore places you may not have even imagined existed. The boundaries of the world will extend and your travel experiences will reach a whole new level of quality and excitement.
But everything is not as simple as it seems. The sea is not a road, and you can't simply pull over to the side of the water. Buying a yacht license without proper training is pointless, as Poseidon is not a police officer, and you can’t just get rid of him with your "sheepskin".
The training process to become a skilled skipper is complex and requires full dedication and focus from both the instructor and the student. In which educational institution did you study for real, without freebies and absenteeism? School? Institute? Forget it. A yacht school is a place where you shouldn't go if you are not attuned to receive an “honors degree”.
We are ready to train you. Are you ready to learn?
You will have the same yachting licenses after you successfully pass the exam
Step 1. THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP
Choosing the right sailing school is crucial and requires careful consideration. To be honest, this step is the most important and responsible. Making the wrong choice can waste your time and money. You need to learn from the best, a school like Sail Band:
We teach you how to dock until you master it perfectly. During the exam you moor the yacht by yourself.
We not only teach you the ropes but also share insider secrets and tips that will save you stress and money during your future charters.
Many yachting schools focus solely on daytime sailing near the shore, but one day you might find yourself far from land at night. That's why we train you for such scenarios.
We believe in honesty and transparency. We won't burden you with additional fees for VHF training, berthing, fuel, or bed linens. There are no hidden costs whatsoever.
Our support doesn't end with your training. We're here for you even after you've earned your license. We know that guidance and assistance are invaluable for novice captains.
Step 2. THE LESS EXCITING PART
In all yachting schools, including ours, the necessary minimum of yachting theory is studied during the practice. While it's possible to start your practical training without prior theoretical knowledge, we strongly advise against it. Trying to grasp everything at once can be overwhelming. It's better to have a solid understanding of the theory before setting sail. The sea doesn't tolerate rush decisions.
Don't waste your time and learn all the theory during practice
instantly
you will have to study hard when you come to the boat
there's a risk of failure
free of charge
After signing the contract, we will immediately send you textbooks for free
from 2 weeks to 2 months
requires self-discipline and focus, can be challenging
you are alone - there is no one to ask
free of charge
The course consists of 24 video lessons, recorded in plain language
2-3 weeks
everything is explained clearly, and you can ask questions via email
good internet access is necessary
200 €
Needless to say, taking theory lessons at a school (either in person or online) significantly increases your chances of passing the exam successfully. A solid theoretical foundation also makes your sailing adventures safer and could potentially save your life. It's truly essential.
When a professional instructor presents well-structured material, you're more likely to understand and remember it compared to studying on your own. We strongly recommend investing the time to go through the theory with an instructor. It's important and worthwhile.
Step 3. THE MOST EXCITING PART
wYour practical training will take place in Montenegro aboard our fleet of modern and comfortable cruising yachts. Even if there's a considerable time gap between your theory and practical sessions, and you've forgotten some things, don't worry. We'll review the theory during a brief refreshing course before you set sail. Our experienced instructors will identify any knowledge gaps and help you to figure them out.
Get a sailing license
Bareboat Skipper Sail IYT
10 days
yacht accommodation
no fuel and berthing surcharges
Training cost: €1,450
License cost: €150
Get a power license
Bareboat Skipper Power IYT
6 days
yacht accommodation
no fuel and berthing surcharges
Training cost: €1,350
License cost: €150
Get a sailing and power license
Bareboat Skipper Sail & Power IYT
13 days
yacht accommodation
no fuel and berthing surcharges
Training cost: €2,300
License cost: €200
Step 4: THE MOST WORRYING
The exam takes place on the final day of your practical training. It evaluates your readiness to obtain a yacht license and sail independently. We don't offer any special treatment or shortcuts, so be ready to give it your all.
Training and getting a yacht license is just the beginning. No school or instructor, even the most talented, is able to turn an inexperienced beginner into a real sea wolf in a short time, who can deal with any situation at sea. Yes, you will know and be able to do everything that is necessary, but then you will need to develop practical skills, gain experience, expand your capabilities and grow and develop in every possible way.
Few people think about what will happen next before training. Now that you've got your license, what to do next? How, where and with whom to gain invaluable experience that turns yesterday's student into this notorious "sea wolf"?
If you've only just started getting interested in the possibility of learning and spent some time on it, then you probably have a mess and misunderstanding in your head right now. The Internet is full of offers "from zero to hero", and consciousness suggests that this does not happen? It tells you correctly.
We have written a detailed guide that tells you all the steps that you will have to go through to become an experienced captain, next to whom the crew feels comfortable and safe. This is a long way that we ourselves, and now most of our graduates, have come. And we are not talking about those who immediately went to sea, leaving everything behind, but about ordinary people - office managers, entrepreneurs, IT specialists, etc.
We tell you what exactly you need to be able to do, how long it will take, what you need to do, how much it costs, and where you can save money. This will at least help you navigate and understand what awaits you.
WHY ANNUALLY HUNDREDS OF BEGINNERS CHOOSE US
We work within the IYT system - one of the most popular and recognized yacht captain training systems worldwide. You can be sure that upon completing our training, you'll receive a legitimate international license, permitting you to charter yachts in almost any maritime country.
SAIL AND POWER TRAININGS ON NEW YACHTS
We own a fleet of new, modern, and comfortable cruising yachts. The same yachts can be hired in practically any country across the world. It's best to train with the equipment you'll be sailing with so you don't have to re-train and adjust.
WE TEACH YOU ON THE RESULT AND TRUST YOU OUR YACHTS
We are not only a yachting school, but also a charter company, which means we rent out our yachts. We cannot train poorly because many of our recent grads are among the charter clients; otherwise, you will damage our yachts.
TRAINING IN MONTENEGRO, AT THE ADRIATIC SEA
We not only teach you how to operate a yacht, but we also prepare you for the international realities of yachting. You will learn to navigate different types of charts, communicate effectively with marinas, and handle important paperwork.
ONGOING SUPPORT BEYOND TRAINING – WE EMBARK ON THE JOURNEY WITH YOU
We understand that taking your first steps in yachting can be scary, so we don't leave you alone after training. We regularly organize yachting activities for our graduates to help you gain confidence and experience.
COMPREHENSIVE AND ENGAGING PROGRAMS
We've taken the IYT standard training programs as a foundation, enriching them to provide you with an extended learning experience. Our training programs are not just about acquiring licenses; they are designed to equip you with all the knowledge and practical skills necessary for yachting success.
EXCLUSIVE RED SKIPPER'S T-SHIRTS
As proof of your achievement, we issue red SKIPPER T-shirts to our graduates. Check out our Instagram to see how many happy people are proudly wearing their red polos.
EXPERIENCED INSTRUCTORS, TESTED BY THE SEA
We hire only the best instructors: highly experienced and skilled in pedagogy. Over the years, we've come to realize that this combination is a rarity. That's why we're dedicated to carefully selecting and nurturing the finest instructors to guide you through your training journey.
WE REALLY WORK WITH PASSION
We are passionate about the sea and our work, and we strive for perfection in everything we do. With youthful maximalism, we approach each training session with dedication and enthusiasm. Many of our graduates become lifelong friends who continue to sail with us for years.
ONLY REAL REVIEWS FROM OUR GRADUATES
Rating
Evgeny Sheremet
Hi all! Just finished my training. All in order and completely matches with their website, promises and my expectations. The instructor is strict - no resting or relaxing. However, you can actually ᐳᐳ
Hi all! Just finished my training. All in order and completely matches with their website, promises and my expectations. The instructor is strict - no resting or relaxing. However, you can actually take the boat and drive it yourself following the exam. Highly recommend!
Roman Aniskov
A great school, for those who want to really learn, not just hang out on the boat for a couple of weeks. The teaching approach is well-organized and straightforward, both in theory and ᐳᐳ
A great school, for those who want to really learn, not just hang out on the boat for a couple of weeks.
The teaching approach is well-organized and straightforward, both in theory and practice. The instructors are fantastic, willingly sharing their extensive experience and knowledge while following their own comprehensive program. You won't find yourself bored or unengaged throughout the training.
The school boasts a fleet of well-equipped boats, even during the "off season" when I attended. Surprisingly, it was warm and comfortable. The boats are fully stocked with everything you need, including cooking facilities without any hassle. The maintenance of the boats is impeccable, and all the equipment is in excellent condition.
In addition to the "skipper" program, they go the extra mile and provide valuable insights on boat rentals, where to find them, how to handle paperwork, navigate international waters, and avoid potential pitfalls. They cover topics beyond what you typically find in textbooks, which is an added bonus.
Anton Bolshikh
I'm delighted with this school! It was a wonderful 13 days (10 on a sailing boat and 3 on a motor boat). Special mention should be made of the instructor Dmitry. The man is very enthusiastic ᐳᐳ
I'm delighted with this school! It was a wonderful 13 days (10 on a sailing boat and 3 on a motor boat). Special mention should be made of the instructor Dmitry. The man is very enthusiastic about his work and his aim is to teach, not just to get money and give rights. Honestly, for me personally it was hard to learn, because it requires a good knowledge of theory (which I passed at second shot). But the explanations are excellent and everything is worked out in practice. The training is very interesting and engaging. The course even included a night crossing and an insanely interesting lecture on the weather. We moored the boat alone in the exam, each member of the group. After the exam we climbed the mast, emotions are super! Not a single penny was spared!
Olesia Borovskaia
Awesome school. I was in the first group of the season. It was easy, clear, and cozy. Training sessions, breathtaking views along the way, getting to know the ship. Everything went smoothly, it ᐳᐳ
Awesome school. I was in the first group of the season. It was easy, clear, and cozy. Training sessions, breathtaking views along the way, getting to know the ship. Everything went smoothly, it was interesting and enlightening. Not just teamwork skills, but also personal skills when you're one-on-one with the ship. Understanding how everything is organized and works. Fascinating life hacks. For a landlubber like me who stepped behind the helm for the first time, it was an invaluable experience and knowledge.
Anna Arzamastseva
Be cautious with this school! The first time I came to Montenegro from Novosibirsk with a group of friends, we rented a boat and spent a week exploring the beauty of Montenegro. I won't go ᐳᐳ
Be cautious with this school!
The first time I came to Montenegro from Novosibirsk with a group of friends, we rented a boat and spent a week exploring the beauty of Montenegro. I won't go into details, but now I live here after completing my skipper training at Sail Band. I joined Sail Band's flotilla trips to Italy and Greece. I believe in Neptune, I love good wine, I know how to knit a "besedka" (a type of Russian shawl), and much more. In short, think carefully before coming here...
Maria Perepechai
Great guys!!! I studied with them in Tivat, got a license and went with them to the passage through the Cyclades. Full of delight! Professional and just great people. I am very glad that I chose ᐳᐳ
Great guys!!! I studied with them in Tivat, got a license and went with them to the passage through the Cyclades. Full of delight! Professional and just great people. I am very glad that I chose them! You are unforgettable! With wonderful memories and great warmth in my heart. ❤️ See you soon! 🌊⛵️
WHY GOING TO A BIG YACHT SCHOOL IS USEFUL
Our graduates are our pride and our responsibility. As the saying goes: "We are responsible for those we have trained." That's why we are available round the clock to answer the calls of our amazing graduates sailing the seas, assisting them with any yachting challenges they may face. Whether it's offering advice, taking action, providing valuable contacts, or simply offering words of encouragement.
When you sign up for training at Sail Band, you can be confident that you will receive a comprehensive experience. you can rest assured that you will receive everything you need to have an unforgettable sailing experience and become part of a lively community of sailing enthusiasts. Pleasant communication and building friendships with fellow seafarers from all over the world are essential aspects of yachting. After all, what's the point if you don't have meaningful connections?
If you've already made up your mind, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We promise you won't regret it. And if you haven't made a decision yet, we encourage you to do so soon, so you won't have any regrets about missed opportunities.
See you at sea!
Montenegro, Tivat,
marina Porto Montenegro
+382 68 566 126
info@sailband.com