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To most people, learning to sail sounds like a closed world of seasoned mariners — but the truth is the opposite: any healthy person can start learning to sail with no prior experience and hold a licence within a few weeks. This guide sorts it out: which licences exist, where to start, what it costs and what happens along the way.
Which boating licences exist in Israel?
The Shipping Authority (Ministry of Transport) issues several licence types, by vessel:
- Meshit 11 — jet-ski: the fastest and cheapest licence, from age 16.
- Meshit 12 — speedboat (Otzma A): fast motorboats.
- Meshit 13 — Otzma B: larger, more powerful motorboats.
- Meshit 30 — the skipper course for yachts: sail or motor yachts up to 24 metres — the licence most sailing dreamers aim for.
- ISSA international skipper licence: for sailing and chartering abroad, recognised in 100+ countries.
Where should you start?
There is no single answer — it depends on your dream:
- Want adrenaline and speed? Start with a jet-ski — a short course, one exam, and you're on the water.
- Fishing days and family fun? A boat licence (Otzma A or B) is your direction.
- Dreaming of cruises, sunsets and destinations abroad? Go straight for the skipper course — Meshit 30, ideally combined with the international licence.
What do the studies actually look like?
Every track has two parts: theory (rules of the sea, navigation, safety, instruments) and practice at sea on the vessel itself, each ending with a Shipping Authority exam. At Posidon, theory is taught in the classroom aboard at the Blue Marina Ashdod — and the practical sails straight from the pier into open sea.
Want a taste before committing? Our theory exams are open for free practice, no signup — try one and see it's less scary than you thought.
How long does it take and what does it cost?
A jet-ski licence can be completed within a few weeks (from ILS 600), and a boat licence on a similar track. A full skipper course takes 4–8 weeks (from ILS 5,000). Full details in our guide: how much a skipper course and boating licence cost.
And where do you learn?
At Posidon, Israel's first sailing school (since 1985), studies take place at the Blue Marina Ashdod — especially convenient for residents of Ashdod, Ashkelon and the south. Morning, evening and weekend groups, including Haredi and women-only groups.
Questions? Talk to us — we'd love to help you choose your first course to the sea.