Boat license class in France

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We traveled a bit before returning to France after our bittersweet yet motivated departure from Hong Kong at the end of October 2024.

Just a few days after arriving in France (I got there a bit earlier, in mid-November), we were already on our way to our boat permit class in Lagny!


Which company we went with?

We decided to sign up with Paris Nautique for this adventure. 

One of the advantages is that they have various classrooms throughout Paris, making it easy to find available slots for our last-minute registration. 

Plus, they are among the most affordable options. 

The real highlight is that you get to take your practical class on the iconic Seine River!


But that’s a topic for another post.

The instructor appears to be very knowledgeable and is well-regarded in the industry, having had his nautical adventures documented by the press.

You receive several online resources to help you prepare before the actual class, including:

  • Online Courses
  • Online Tests

By the time you arrive at the classroom, you should already have a solid understanding of the theory. You'll need to be well-prepared, as it’s a full-day class from 9 AM to 5 PM, and they expect you to know the basics, so the pace can be quite quick.

Here we are, back to school, at age 4x!!


You can purchase books and quiz tests from the school, which we did—this little red waterproof book will be kept on the boat later on.





After completing the class, you can take the exam whenever you feel ready at any exam center across France.

The one-day theory class +online preparation courses/online test access + half day practical class did cost around 365 euros per pax. 

Plus you have to pay for a Fiscal stamp 38 euros per pax.

And finally you pay 30 euros per pax for the exam center. 

The total cost per pax for a Boat driving license in France is 433 euros.

Of course price may vary according to the school and location you take your exam at. 

Any tips?

I didn't rely much on the online tests from Paris Nautique to prepare for my exams (since they were video-based with multiple-choice questions). 

Instead, I utilized a more hands-on website, Loisirs-Nautic.fr . 

It allows you to practice on various topics and real-life scenarios with a time limit. 

I essentially used their website on my phone for all my training—a real gem!

Stay tuned to see if Nico and I passed!

Wish us luck! Or wish us "merde" (crap) like we say in French ;)


Location: Paris, France

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