There are various training organisations around the world, however if you plan to travel around the world, a good place to start is with the RYA, the Royal Yachting Association. Although it is a UK based organisation, it is well respected internationally and has a clear progression from beginner to skipper.

The RYA provides private and commercial licences for vessels up to 24mtrs loadline length and under 80GT.

Royal Yachting Association

RYA Personal Logbook

Start recording your trips and miles, this will help in the future!
https://www.rya.org.uk/shop/p/rya-personal-logbook

RYA Competent Crew

This is a great starting point enabling you to be a helpful hand on a small private yacht.

RYA Day Skipper / can be converted to ICC

The first RYA ticket that can be used to charter a yacht for coastal / day trips.

When converted to an International Certificate of Competency it is widely accepted and is also required for skippering your own yacht, particularly within Europe.

Day Skipper Theory
25% Discount for Crews Mess Members!

International Certificate of Competency

Learn more about the ICC here: https://www.rya.org.uk/knowledge/abroad/icc

For UK flagged boats visiting other countries see RYA guidance on where might the ICC be accepted and their country specific advice.

Many countries have their own version of this, which you would need to look into yourself, however the UK route is open to all.

RYA Marine Radio SRC (Short Range Certificate)

This is required in the UK to operate a VHF radio, some countries don’t require any licence and others have their own requirements, however RYA are widely accepted.

Day Skipper to YachtMaster Practical Courses
20% discount for Crew Mess Members!

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore

Competent to skipper a private yacht on any passage during which the yacht is no more than 150 miles from harbour.

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean

You are experienced and competent to skipper a private yacht on passages of any length in all parts of the world.