Captain verification
Captains can list right away — and every profile and listing clearly shows whether their ID and skipper license have been checked. Here's what we verify, and what we don't.
What we check
Government-issued ID
We verify the captain's identity against an official document.
Skipper license
We check the skipper license number against the issuing authority where possible.
Boat papers aren't required
We don't ask for boat registration or ownership documents. Many captains co-charter or rent the boats they sail, and requiring papers would shut them out — so we focus verification on the person at the helm, not the paperwork on the boat.
List before you're verified
New captains can publish listings before verification is complete. Each listing and profile shows whether ID and license have been checked yet, so travelers always know where things stand and can ask in chat before booking.
Why verification matters
Safety on the water
A checked skipper license shows the captain is qualified to sail with paying passengers.
Confidence in chat
When ID and license are checked, you know exactly who you're chatting with before agreeing on price and trip details.
Platform integrity
Showing each captain's verification status openly keeps SailsSearch a trusted marketplace for both sides.
The verified badge
Look for the verified badge
On profiles and listings, it means the captain has passed identity and skipper-license checks. Listings still in review show their status openly instead of the badge.