Boating regulations 2026
From 1 October 2026 it is no longer possible to rent a recreational boat without a boating qualification. Here is what the rule says and how you can keep sailing with Oceanautic, with or without a licence.
From 1 October 2026, renting a recreational boat requires a valid boating qualification. Royal Decree 1188/2025 of 26 December amends Royal Decree 875/2014 and limits the exemption for boats of up to 5 metres and 15 HP to private use. Until 30 September 2026 these boats could be rented without a qualification.
| Situation | Until 30 Sep 2026 | From 1 Oct 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Renting a 5 m boat without a qualification | Yes | No |
| Renting with a Navigation Licence | Yes | Yes |
| Renting with a PNB or PER | Yes | Yes |
| Going out with a skipper on board or on an organised trip | Yes | Yes, no qualification needed |
Three ways to enjoy the sea in Málaga and Benalmádena. Choose yours.
Yes. With a valid qualification you can rent as usual. The Navigation Licence lets you skipper boats of up to 6 metres, in daylight and up to 2 miles from the coast. See our boats with Navigation Licence or see all our Boat Rental in Málaga options and book your trip.
If you don’t have it yet, the one-day course is the quickest way: Boating Licence in Málaga.
No. From 1 October 2026 a valid recreational boating qualification is required to rent a boat. You can still go out without one on a catamaran with a skipper or on a boat trip.
It amends Royal Decree 875/2014 and limits the exemption for boats up to 5 metres and 15 HP to private use. That is why the 5-metre boat can no longer be rented without a qualification.
You have three options with Oceanautic: rent a catamaran with a skipper, book a boat trip, or get your Navigation Licence in one day.
It costs €99 and takes a single day: 2 hours of theory and 4 of practice, with no exam.
Boats of up to 6 metres, in daylight and up to 2 miles from the coast.
No. The skipper is on board the catamaran, and boat trips do not require a qualification on your part.
Any questions? Write to us on WhatsApp or at info@oceanautic.es.
