Call for mutual recognition of boating licences

Mutual recognition of boating licences should be established swiftly following the publication of a study by the EU Commission.

The European Boating Industry says it has had long-standing concerns about the fragmented and inconsistent framework governing recreational boating licences across the EU and is now urging policy makers to act swiftly.

EBI supported the development of the study on the Mutual Recognition of Boating Licences by mobilising its network, contributing industry expertise, and facilitating stakeholder participation throughout the process.

The findings point out that the lack of recognition creates unnecessary challenges for boaters, charter operators, marinas, and training organisations, ultimately hindering mobility and slowing the growth of nautical tourism.

The EBI points out that growing nautical tourism in Europe is also an asset to the wider boating industry, supporting companies and jobs across the sector.

The study recommends establishing mandatory mutual recognition of the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) to streamline cross-border boating, ensure safety, and reduce administrative complexity.

The EBI is now calling on the EU Commission to make this matter a priority and implement EU-wide measures for mutual license recognition.

Advancing these changes is seen as vital to enhancing the experience for Europe’s roughly 48 million recreational boaters and boosting the sector’s competitiveness.

Mutual recognition

“This study confirms what our sector has experienced for many years,” said Marina Palumbo Cardella, project & policy officer at EBI.

“The lack of mutual recognition of boating licences creates barriers for users and industry alike.

“Adopting mutual recognition of the ICC is the most practical and achievable way forward.

“We now look to the EU institutions to champion this initiative and help deliver a modern, user-friendly system for Europe’s boaters.”