Getting your boat license or your ICC Power Under 10 m boat license is an exciting milestone. Whether you want to charter a boat abroad or enjoy local waterways with confidence, proper training is essential. But it’s easy to make mistakes along the way, especially if you’re new to boating.
We’ve worked with many students at Boatability and have seen where people often go wrong. Here is a friendly heads‑up on the most common mistakes to avoid while working toward your boat license or RYA Level 2 Powerboat Handling course.
Some beginners try to jump straight to the ICC Power Under 10 m boat license without taking the RYA Level 2 Powerboat Training course first. In most cases, Level 2 is the perfect starting point. It is practical, comprehensive, and the recognised foundation for both UK and European boating qualifications.
Why It Matters: Level 2 builds the core skills required to safely handle a boat and is recognised as the primary pathway to achieving your ICC boat license.
It’s easy to assume boating is all about being hands-on, but theory plays a big part in becoming a competent skipper. Topics like navigation, collision regulations, buoyage, and weather patterns are essential for safe boating.
Why It Matters: Skipping these subjects could leave you unprepared for real‑world situations. To support you, Boatability offers online training options to build your knowledge at your own pace before stepping aboard.
A common misconception is that if you can drive a car (or even a ferry), you can drive a boat. That is not the case.
Why It Matters: Most boats—especially if you plan to operate one abroad—require a recognised boat license, typically the ICC Power Under 10 m boat license. It is a legal requirement in many countries.
The International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is accepted across most European countries, but not worldwide. Some nations or charter companies may have additional requirements.
Why It Matters: If you’re planning to charter abroad, always check the licensing rules in your destination. The ICC is a well-respected qualification, but it’s important to know where it will be accepted.
Choosing between inland, coastal, or powerboat qualifications can be confusing, especially when you are just starting out.
Why It Matters: Booking the wrong course could mean earning a qualification that doesn’t match your ambitions. The RYA Level 2 Powerboat Handling course is ideal for boats up to 10 metres in both inland and coastal waters. It’s also the most commonly used route to obtain the ICC Power Under 10 m boat license.
If you’re unsure which course suits you best, we’re happy to help you choose.
Sometimes students arrive for practical sessions without reviewing the pre-course materials. It’s natural to feel eager to get on the water, but doing your prep beforehand makes a big difference.
Why It Matters: Coming prepared helps you make the most of your training time, builds your confidence, and helps the course feel more enjoyable rather than overwhelming.
Some people think they can just turn up to a charter company and hire a boat without proof of training. Most reputable charter companies abroad will ask for a valid boat license, such as the ICC Power Under 10 m boat license.
Why It Matters: Without the correct paperwork, you may not be allowed to take the boat out. Having the right certification means you can step aboard with confidence, knowing you have the training and qualifications required.
Gaining your boat license, whether through the RYA Level 2 Powerboat Handling course or working toward your ICC Power Under 10 m boat license, is a rewarding journey that takes time, focus, and effort. By avoiding these common mistakes and preparing properly, you’ll build solid boating skills that will serve you well on any waterway.
Get in touch with us if you’re ready to start your boating journey or just want some advice about which course is right for you.
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