The theory exam for the PER (Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo, the Spanish Recreational Boat Skipper licence) is the biggest challenge for many. Having doubts is normal! Ricard has gathered the 5 questions that come up most often in class, with tips so you can sit the exam with a captain’s calm.
Is chart work and the calculations very hard?
Answer: It is not hard, it is methodical. It needs steady practice. 90% of mistakes come from not handling the parallel ruler and dividers well. Don’t give up on the chart!
Which topics should I focus on most?
Answer: COLREG and buoyage. They are compulsory and carry the most weight in the exam. Knowing a sailing boat’s lights or a buoy’s colour are easy points!
How long do I need to prepare for the exam?
Answer: The average is 8 to 12 weeks of steady study (4-5 hours a week). At Altair you study at your own pace in the virtual classroom; what helps most is doing tests and mock exams.
What happens if I only fail the calculations?
Answer: Good news! Catalonia’s rules let you keep the parts you pass. If you pass the rest, at the next exam session you only resit the calculations, not the whole exam.
How long is the practical training once I pass the theory?
Answer: The compulsory safety and navigation practical training is 16 hours, over two days. The sail endorsement adds another 16 hours if you want to sail yachts. From the publication of the final theory marks you have 24 months to apply for the licence (RD 875/2014, art. 23).
Stop studying alone!
With the virtual classroom you study at your own pace, with tests and mock exams, and with Ricard to answer your questions. See the PER course