Many people often ask us what the difference is between the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) and IYT Worldwide Powerboat Courses, especially in the United Kingdom and furthermore in North Wales, as there are many RYA Training Centres.
The RYA are a UK organisation, whereas IYT Worldwide are based in Canada. However, when it comes to official Government Approvals and international acceptance of certificates/licenses, some may argue that both entities are equal or that IYT are in fact more recognised.
The important fact to understand is that the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) issued by either the RYA or IYT have to be approved by a government. In the UK, the MCGA (MCA) – Maritime & Coastguard Agency (part of the Department for Transport) are the legal authority and has authorised and approved both the RYA and IYT for over 25 years to train and issue powerboat licenses, along with several other courses.
IYT has its advantages as it is also approved by many other governments and countries and sits outside of Brexit / the EU, often resulting in its certificates/licenses being more widely accepted worldwide by charter companies and local port authorities.
Once you have completed your RYA Powerboat Level 2 (subject to eligibility), you can apply to the RYA (at an additional cost) for an International Certificate of Competence. The RYA PB2 alone does not permit you to charter powerboats abroad (outside of the UK). However, the IYT ICC 10m is a direct route (subject to eligibility) to chartering abroad and upon successful completion of the 2-day course offered at AstroNav UK (click here), you will be issued with an ICC valid for 5 years.
The course programs and topics covered are very similar, whilst IYT allows for a more tailored and flexible learning experience based on the course attendees.