Licences · Sail

Are the sailing practical sessions compulsory?

They aren’t, but without them your PER or PNB is only valid for motorboats. What the 16 hours under sail give you and when it’s worth doing them.

Ricard Prehn, professional skipper and yacht captain Updated 29 September 2026 3 min

Sail endorsement practical session on Escuela Náutica Altair’s sailing boat

The Mediterranean is the perfect setting for sailing. ⛵ The big question is: do I have to do the sailing practical sessions to get my licence? The answer is NO, but it’s one of the best decisions you can make. Here’s why. 🌬️

The rule: optional, but highly recommended

The sailing practical sessions are an extra 16 hours (for the PER), on top of the motor ones. They are not needed to get the “motor” licence.

Why add the sail endorsement (the benefits)

  • A better skipper: sailing makes you understand the wind, currents and weather in a way the engine doesn’t. It improves your planning and boat-handling skills.
  • Savings and sustainability: it lets you sail without burning fuel. Nothing beats the silence under sail!
  • Legal versatility: if one day you charter or buy a sailing boat, you’ll be legally entitled to use sail as the main means of propulsion.

How do you get it?

Once the 16 hours are done, your PNB or PER licence will carry the endorsement “Additional Entitlements for Sailing”.

The school’s advice

Even if your first boat is a motorboat, we recommend doing the sailing practical sessions. You’ll become a much more complete sailor, more in tune with sea conditions.

Learn to sail!

Our fleet includes sailing boats for your practical sessions. Learn to handle the rig and to set a course with the wind! ⛵ See sailing practical sessions