Professional Maritime Qualifications
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE COMMAND OF RECREATIONAL CRAFT ENGAGED IN COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES (COMMERCIAL YACHTS)
Pleasure yachts engaged in commercial activities must comply at all times with the applicable international standards governing the training, certification and watchkeeping of seafarers.
San Marino has established minimum qualification standards for Yacht Masters and navigational officers operating on coastal voyages within 60 nautical miles of a sheltered place. The relevant limited coastal Certificate of Competency (CoC) complies with internationally recognised maritime training and certification principles and has been duly notified to the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Recreational craft used for commercial purposes and carrying no more than 12 passengers may be commanded by Masters holding the appropriate Certificate of Competency. The applicable qualification depends on the vessel’s category:
- commercial yachts not exceeding 24 metres in length and 200 GT; or
- commercial yachts measuring 24 metres or more and under 500 GT.
The Commercial Yacht Master Certificate of Competency is recognised as equivalent to the qualification required for Masters operating on coastal voyages. It is issued by the San Marino Maritime Navigation Authority using the prescribed international certificate format and is formally notified to the IMO.
Applicants must meet the applicable eligibility, training, examination and professional experience requirements established for obtaining the Commercial Yacht Master Certificate of Competency.
Education and professional-training providers delivering courses leading to Certificates of Competency must also satisfy the prescribed minimum organisational, technical and educational requirements.
Legal and Regulatory References
- International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW 78/95), including Article IX and Regulation II/3.
- San Marino Delegated Decree No. 104 of 9 August 2024, including Article 76-quinquies.
- San Marino Delegated Decree No. 79 of 12 June 2026.
- San Marino Regulation No. 6 of 16 February 2024, establishing the minimum requirements for education and professional-training providers.
- San Marino Law No. 120 of 2 August 2019, as amended.
- International STCW Convention 78/95.