CEVNI Test

CEVNI stands for Code Europeen des Voies de la Navigation Interieure which translated into English is "European Code for Navigation on Inland Waterways". It is the European code for rivers, canals and lakes in Europe (not the UK). A boat captain is required to have a CEVNI endorsement on his / her International Certificate of Competence (ICC) to be allowed to navigate on most European waterways. This requires a test on the code, organised by the governing body of boating of each European country. In the UK this is the Royal Yachting Association.

Upon booking the course

When you have booked the test we will email you an enrolment key and instructions on how to log in and do the test. You can practise the test as many times as you like before taking it for real online. Once you have completed the CEVNI test, you will be told immediately whether you have been successful or not. As the CEVNI test is an addition to the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) you will have to get your ICC validated for inland waters.

In addition to passing the CEVNI test, for an ICC to be issued you must present a qualifying RYA practical course completion certificate or pass an ICC practical test.

CEVNI contains the core uniform rules applicable to the traffic on inland waterways, such as visual signs on vessels, sound signals and radiotelephony, waterway signs and markings, rules of the road, berthing rules, and prevention of pollution of water and disposal of waste.

The RYA CEVNI Handbook covers the CEVNI rules and regulations. This is available from First Class Sailing when you book online.

So, if you want to travel on inland waterways such as the Canal du Midi, you need to prove that you understand these rules. The CEVNI allows you to access some of the most fascinating waterways in the world, but you do need the piece of paper before you can get out there and enjoy them.