Course Programme

• Introduction to navigation principles

• Chart reading and usage

• Estimated navigation and planning

• Use of onboard instruments

• Tide calculations and effects

• Collision regulations at sea (RIEAM)

• GMDSS communications, distress & emergency protocols

• Weather forecasting for sailors

• Safety and accident prevention

• First aid at sea

• Firefighting onboard

• Maritime ceremonial

• Engines, maintenance & environmental care

• Practical vessel handling

• Use of onboard equipment

(Compliant with Portuguese Regulation Portaria n.º 288/2000)

Price

Requirements

Minimum age: 18 years old. Swimming ability is required for course participation.

Documentation:

To apply for the Local Skipper Licence exam, the following documents are required:

• Completed registration form
• 1 passport-sized photo (digital)
• Non-Portuguese residents: proof of residence
• Medical certificate for water sports

For initial registration, only the form and a photo are required. All other documents must be submitted at least one week before the exam. If you already hold a Sailor Certificate, please provide a copy to waive proof of swimming ability.

Duration

Total course duration: 40 hours (30 hours theory + 10 hours practical)

Theoretical lessons are offered in multiple formats:

• Evening classes over 5 weeks (Mon & Wed or Tue & Thu, 19:30–22:30)
• Weekend format over 5 Saturdays (full day 09:30–17:00)
• Intensive 5-day course (Mon–Fri 09:30–17:00)

Practical lessons are scheduled flexibly during weekdays or weekends, always in small crews.

Exams take place on weekends or evenings and include a 2.5-hour theoretical component followed by a practical test.

Boats

Practical lessons include a full day sailing a +10m yacht and a half-day session on a semi-rigid RibCraft 6.4 PRO boat.

Locations

West Coast offers two prime locations for attending the Local Skipper course: Marina de Oeiras and Marina Parque das Nações. All locations provide direct water access for practical sailing sessions.