Blog Post

Obtaining my Class 1 Japan Boat License

Lowell Sheppard • October 20, 2019

I Passed?

Finally, on my third attempt for my Class 1 License, I made it!

Now, I can legally leave Japan's shores as the Class-One License allows me to go beyond 5 nautical miles off shore. What I consider odd though, is that if I had a foreign registered boat, I would not need a boat license at all. Unlike a drivers licence for a car, where you need the license for the jurisdiction where you are to drive, with a boat, here in Japan, it is about whether it is a Japanese-registered boat or not.
Class One Sailing License
But, that peculiarity aside, I am elated, relieved, and once again grateful for the opportunity to learn. The Class-One test is different each time although the number of questions and categories are the same. 

The Learning Continues

For each exam I took, there were questions for which I had not studied. In addition, there are other things that I need to know, but still befuddle me, such as:
  • Marine Chart Navigation
  • working out deviation
  • the effects of current on bearing
...just to name a few. So, I will continue to study.

Thanks to everyone who sent me positive energy and prayers. I did it!!

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