Sailing and fishing requirements on Mar Men or. - Page 2

Rules are more relaxed when using the Mar Menor, as it appears to be classed as an inland lake, nearest English translation.

Why worry about launching charges. If it was a big harbour like Aguilas or Carboneras, Almeria, the Harbour Control would be onto it immediately. They watch and patrol every craft.

International qualifications are not recognized in Spain, surprise surprise.

I quoted the example of my next door neighbour been Captain on cruise liners for thirty odd years. His over qualified credentials are not recognized by Spanish Maritime. 

And, yes you are correct in your assumption of segregating English users.

I have Spanish friends at Garrucha Harbour and Villaricos Harbours and the prejudice is common knowledge.

You cannot launch a boat from these type of harbours without paying launching fees.

They even come round these harbours noting car registration numbers and chassis numbers of trailers. It is not uncommon to see the Guardia called in to offenders.

Sometimes however  it pays just to get on with it.

Your friends qualifications, adequately qualified internationally, will not be recognized or accepted here in Spain. So as he has not been challenged in two weeks, carry on. 

Probably okay on the "lake".

No licence only available on the Mar Menor, classified as inland water. You definately need qualifications in open seas.

So if you fancy a day in a boat on the Mar Menor, great if you have no licence, but it is expensive, boats are always expensive.

Large ocean craft can be hundreds per hour.T hese can be hired with Spanish Maritime Licence from say Garrucha harbour. Or if no licence with a Captain.

Thanks for your reply. Very helpful. He has gone out again today and I'm sure he will be relieved to read your comments when he gets back.

Jeff

No worries, hope he enjoys the improved weather.

May I just clarify, the licence requirement applies to residents not visitors.

Licensed visitors from other parts have little to worry about when arriving in Spain, unless they are smugglers lol.

We are meeting friends in Benalmadena Marina in a few weeks.

They will berth here for the winter.

They have a large 14m cruiser and live on there permanently. Yes I am jealous :)

Me jealous too. Any room for 2 more shipmates?

Jeff

Rather than the Spanish licence (only up to 6 metres) go for the RYA PB2 course, 2 days for approx €350, then join RYA for £45 a year with free ICC licence, covering you for up to 10 metres with any power.

ProVela at Mar Cristal or Britannia (Paul Dorey) at Torrevieja do them, with special winter offers at the latter. Both courses in English.