If you want to enjoy the sea and sail your own sailboat or motorboat, it is essential to have the appropriate navigation license. In this guide, you will learn what it is, how to obtain it, and what nautical experiences you can enjoy with it, for both beginners and advanced sailors.
The navigation license, popularly known as the “titulín”, is the official permit that allows you to operate recreational vessels in Spain for boats up to 6 meters in length and other specifications. It is mandatory for legally sailing sailboats, motorboats, and jet skis within Spanish jurisdiction.
Depending on the vessel and the distance from the coast, there are different types of licenses, as summarized below:
Navigation License: small boats up to 6 meters in length, daytime navigation, provided they do not exceed 2 miles from a port, marina, or place of shelter, and jet skis with no power limit.
PNB (Basic Navigation Skipper): vessels up to 8 meters in length, navigation up to 5 miles from the coast, and night navigation.
PER (Recreational Vessel Skipper): vessels up to 12 meters in length, navigation up to 15 miles from the coast, daytime navigation, and jet skis. Possibility of extending up to 24 meters in length.
To obtain your navigation license, you need:
You must be 18 years of age at the time of the exam. However, minors who are at least 16 years old at the time of the practical training may take the exam by providing written authorization from parents or guardians.
Complete 4 hours of practical training in safety and navigation at sea and 2 hours of theory. No exam required.
Submit a medical certificate proving your physical fitness.
Freedom to sail: rent motorboats or vessels without a professional skipper.
Guaranteed safety: you will know the navigation rules and handling techniques.
Personalized experiences: private trips, excursions, and family activities.
Access to courses and training: improve your skills while enjoying the sea.
If you want to obtain your navigation license in Malaga quickly, safely, and with the best professionals, at Oceanautic — based in Benalmádena — you have everything you need to achieve it. Our nautical school offers comprehensive training, expert instructors, and certified vessels, so you can learn to sail with confidence and in compliance with Spanish regulations.
At Oceanautic, the navigation license course combines:
📘 Theoretical classes guided by instructors with extensive experience.
⚓ Practical training at sea aboard safe and certified motorboats, so you can acquire real sailing skills.
🧠 Clear explanations of the safety standards and maritime regulations applicable in Spain.
All designed so that you are prepared to become a skipper from the very first moment.
Training updated according to current legislation
Real handling techniques for recreational vessels
Safety is our priority. Therefore, all motorboats used during the course are certified and equipped with safety and navigation systems that allow you to learn to maneuver, dock, and control the vessel with confidence before obtaining your Navigation License.
🏆 Top instructors with real sailing experience
🛥 Certified motorboats for safe practical training
🌊 Ideal location in Benalmádena (Malaga), with excellent maritime conditions
📅 Training with flexible schedules
💡 Personalized advice for every student
Ready to start? At Oceanautic.es, we help you choose the best course for you and guide you through the entire process until you obtain your navigation license in Malaga.
Oceanautic Nautical School offers advice, practical training, and onboard experiences for inexperienced students and license holders, combining education and fun.
Tips for beginners
Start with small vessels before progressing to larger motorboats.
Always sail under favorable weather conditions.
Respect the navigation and safety rules in the sailing area.
With Oceanautic, you can rent the same boat you use for your Navigation License practical training.
📞 Contact Oceanautic to check availability, dates, and receive personalized advice on which course best suits you. We help you become a Captain.
