As a result of the difficulties experienced with Dutch Authorities and the general move towards increasing legislation in a number of European countries the RYA is revising the arrangements for the issue of the Helmsman’s Overseas Certificate of Competence. The new certificate will be called the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) and will come into effect from 1st January 1995. The people who need this certificate for certain foreign trips will be those with motor cruisers, sportsboats and sailing cruisers with auxiliary engines. Details on the exact documentation required for specific countries is available from the RYA.

For further information please contact: Mark Howell — Public Relations Officer 0(1)703 629962

DCA Notes by Peter Bick

The above is part of the document — the remainder covers how to get your ICC.

We have now been in touch with the RYA and it appears that such a certificate is only required if your boat has an engine but is larger than 15 metres in length and/or is capable of a speed of more than 20 kilometres per hour (11 knots). Nevertheless legislation is always changing and we think that anyone considering taking a boat abroad should consult not only the above, but also the tourist information department of the country concerned. This can be in the consulate or at a separate location.