What the course is like
The Basic Navigation Skipper, usually known by its Spanish initials PNB, is one of Spain's official recreational boating qualifications and a significant step up from the Navigation Licence.
It is designed for people who want more complete nautical training and greater freedom when sailing, as it allows you to handle recreational motor boats up to 8 metres in length and to go up to 5 nautical miles from a port, marina or sheltered spot.
This is a considerable difference from the Navigation Licence, whose length limit is 6 metres and whose maximum distance is 2 miles from a port, marina or sheltered spot.
The PNB also allows you to handle jet skis and, with the corresponding additional practical training, sailing boats within the limits of this qualification.
Unlike the Navigation Licence, to obtain the PNB you must pass an official theory exam, as well as complete the compulsory safety and navigation practical training and the compulsory radio communications course, and hold the corresponding medical certificate.
Given its privileges, the PNB is particularly interesting for those who want to sail medium-sized boats, make longer coastal trips or hold a qualification with more possibilities than the Navigation Licence, without yet reaching the level of the PER (Recreational Boat Skipper).
What it lets you do
- Up to 5 milesDistances are measured from a port, marina or sheltered spot, not from the coast.
- Up to 8 metres in lengthAny recreational boat that does not exceed that length.
- By day and by nightNo time restriction, with the required navigation lights.
- Jet skisThe qualification also allows you to handle them.
- No power limit
What is included
- Theory training, in person and with videos
- Basic safety and navigation practical training: 8 hours
- Radio communications training: 4 hours
- Pens, notebook and study book
- Access to the online classroom
- Official exams from previous sessions and revision tests
- Official theory exam feeNot included
- Medical certificateNot included
What you need to sign up
- Be over 18It can also be obtained from the age of 16, with written consent from parents or guardians.
- A valid medical certificateIssued by an authorised driver medical centre (Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores). The report is valid for two years and must still be valid when you apply for the qualification to be issued.
- Identity documentAny identity document, as long as it is valid.
- Registration for the official theory exam session
Frequently asked questions
Is the exam fee included?
No. The course price expressly excludes the official theory exam fee.
Can I move on to the PER afterwards?
Yes. The PNB is a stepping stone towards the PER, which increases the length, distance and content.
Can I take just the practical training?
Yes, if you prepare for and pass the theory on your own. The navigation practical training and the radio training can be taken separately.
You may also be interested in
Practical training PNB navigation training The 8 hours of basic safety and navigation practical training for the PNB, available separately. 
Practical training PNB radio communications The 4 hours of PNB radio training, available separately. 
Qualification PER The most complete qualification in our range: boats up to 15 metres and navigation up to 12 miles.
