The sailing licence category «D» allows you to sail boats with a sail area of more than 15 m2. To obtain it you must pass a theory exam and then a practical exam.
Theory exam in English: in Ticino the theory exam cannot be taken in English. If you want to take it in English, you have to sit it in another canton. How it works.
Requirements:
- Minimum age 14
- Medical examination from age 65
- Eyesight certificate
To prepare for the theory exam you can use various e-learning systems or the official manual. Theory material in English is available from Boatdriver.
To prepare for the practical exam you need on average 15 to 25 hours of practical lessons, depending on your previous knowledge. This may vary according to the student's learning pace and experience. Lessons can be individual or in groups of up to 4 students.
You can also practise with your own boat, accompanied by someone who holds a licence of this category.
Knowledge and manoeuvres required for the practical exam:
- Determining the course
- Fixing the position
- Fire fighting
- Reducing sail area (reefing)
- Measures in case of damage
- Weather assessment
- Anchoring manoeuvres
- Manoeuvring in confined spaces
- Man overboard recovery
- Sailing on different courses
- Hoisting and lowering sails
- Manoeuvres (tacking, gybing)
- Approaching a buoy or jetty
Costs sailing licence category D (CHF)
| Practical lessons | |
| private lesson 1 person, 1 h | 120.-- |
| lesson 2 persons, 1 h, per person | 90.-- |
| lesson 3 persons, 1 h, per person | 70.-- |
| lesson 4 persons, 1 h, per person | 55.-- |
| E-learning access | |
| online theory manual | 60.-- |
| online manoeuvres manual | 45.-- |
| Navigation office fees | |
| opening of file | 30.-- |
| theory exam | 30.-- |
| practical exam | 90.-- |
| issue of licence | 50.-- |
| Other | |
| issue of international certificate (ICC) | 50.-- |
Licence application form (in Italian), to be returned to the Sezione della circolazione of Canton Ticino with all required documents.
