The Gold Standard of Maritime Education
Your Passport to the World's Oceans
About the International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA)
The Challenge
“Will My License Be Accepted?”
This is the #1 question new sailors ask. You don’t just want a piece of paper; you want the freedom to charter a yacht in Greece, Croatia, the Caribbean, or Thailand without being turned away at the charter base. In a confusing world of different national licenses, you need a certification that speaks the international language of the sea.
The Solution
“One Standard. Global Access.”
The International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA) is the oldest international sailing organization in the world, founded in 1969. Unlike national bodies that focus on local rules, ISSA was built from the ground up to create a universal standard of competence. An ISSA certificate proves to charter companies and port authorities that you possess the practical skills to command a vessel safely, regardless of which ocean you are sailing.
More Than 50 Years of Excellence. Founded in 1969 in London and Paris, the ISSA was the first organization to introduce a standardized international training scheme. While other associations are national bodies that expanded internationally, ISSA is—and always has been—an international federation. Its mission is simple: to standardize sailing education across borders. Today, ISSA includes accredited schools worldwide, from the Mediterranean to Australia, ensuring that a skipper trained in Greece meets the same rigorous safety standards as one trained in the UK or Brazil.
The 4 Pillars of Your Certification
Why Choose an ISSA School?
Global Recognition
ISSA certificates are widely recognized by charter companies and insurance agencies worldwide. Whether you are planning a holiday in the Mediterranean (Greece, Croatia, Italy), the Caribbean, or Southeast Asia, your license serves as valid proof of competency.
Valid for Life
Unlike some national licenses that require expensive renewals, recreational ISSA certificates (Inshore, Offshore, Master) are valid for life. Once you earn your rank, it is yours forever.
ICC Compliance
The ISSA training program is fully aligned with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Resolution 40. This means the standards for the ISSA Inshore Skipper are equivalent to the ICC (International Certificate of Competence), the primary document required for sailing in European waters.
Practical Focus
ISSA training emphasizes ability over bureaucracy. Examiners focus on your actual handling skills—docking, navigation, and seamanship—rather than just memorizing local regulations that don’t apply internationally.
Discover the full
ISSA Training System of Pleasure Level
Zero to Hero
Sailing Experience
Enrol on the ISSA Inshore Skipper course, obtain your skipper's certificate and take your yacht on charter or sail the seas on your own yacht!
What are the most
Frequently Asked Questions?
Is sail2day.com an accredited school?
Yes. SAIL2DAY is a fully accredited ISSA sailing school. Our instructors are certified examiners, and we are authorized to issue official ISSA licenses directly upon your successful completion of the course.
Are ISSA certificates ICC?
Some of our courses are ICC compliant, ensuring that you meet the international standards for sailing proficiency around Europe.
Is ISSA better than RYA?
Neither is "better"—they are different. The RYA (Royal Yachting Association) is a UK national system that is excellent but heavily focused on tidal waters and British regulations. ISSA is an international system designed for the global charter market. If you plan to sail primarily in the Mediterranean or Caribbean, ISSA is often the more practical and streamlined choice.
Why Choose Us
for your Skipper Courses?
Not sure where to start to learn to sail?
Our sailing school and instructors are certified by ISSA Sailing Schools Association and provide Crew, Skipper & VHF Certificates that are valid for life.
Certified & Experienced Instructors
Our instructors are dedicated to help you gain and improve your skills in sailing, docking, manoeuvring and more, from theory to practice.
ISSA Certificates
Valid for Life
ISSA Certificates are globally recognized and valid for life. Charter a yacht or skipper your own boat. Inshore Skipper (ICC), VHF Radio, Offshore Skipper.
Ongoing Support to achieve your Goals
Whether you are a newcomer or an experienced sailing enthusiast, we are here to support and guide you, to achieve your goals.
Ideal Sailing Training Destination
Our base in Lefkada, Greece is an ideal destination, carefully chosen to provide you with an unforgettable, safe and seamless sailing training experience!
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