ICC vs. US Sailing IPC

[_m_miles]

I wish to earn a certification that will allow me to charter a sailboat. I understand that the ICC is global and widely accepted, and that I can take the written exams through NauticEd and the practicum in Annapolis, MD.

Recently I learned that US Sailing offers a certification called International Proficiency Certificate, available receiving the Bareboat Cruising certification. I could complete the necessary work in Chicago (where I live.)

Is one "better" than the other? It looks like the US Sailing certification is more of a North America/Europe license.

Many thanks.

[denverd0n]

Depending on where you want to charter, you may not need any certification at all. With a reasonable amount of experience, you can charter anywhere in the U.S. or the Caribbean without a certification. Worst case, the charter company will want you to pay for a captain for a day or two, until you demonstrate that you are competent to take the boat yourself.

If you are looking to charter elsewhere, I can't help you. I have only chartered in the U.S. and the Caribbean.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, m miles.