Approved Engine Course Part 1 (AEC1)
Basic marine engineering for yacht crew. Learn to assist engineers and handle simple maintenance tasks.
5 Days
17 AUG 2026
Certification
MCA
Who issues your official qualification
Recognition
Worldwide
Where your certificate is accepted. Check with your flag state for specific approvals.
Suitable For
Qualified engineers and mechanics
Who the course is designed for
Experience Level
AEC1 required
Minimum experience needed to join
Duration
5 Days
Training days only, breaks are not included
Certificate Validity
Lifetime
How long your certificate stays valid
Why This
Course Matters
AEC2 builds on AEC1 and reflects your deeper technical competence. It positions you as a strong candidate for senior assistant or second engineer roles. Especially valued on more complex vessels, this course helps you move up the engineering career ladder with confidence.
Career
growth
& Salary Impact
Junior engineers earn $4,000–$5,000/month, with higher offers for candidates from technical or industrial roles. Career growth is fast: experienced engineers can reach $6,600–$8,800+, making this one of the most rewarding long-term roles on board.
Current Role
With this certification
Junior Engineer
+$2,000
Mechanic
Junior Engineer
+$2,600
Maintenance Fitter
Junior Engineer
+$3,000
Industrial Engineer
What You’ll
Learn
Auxiliaries and Systems
Learn about key vessel systems and equipment, such as hydraulics, refrigeration, air conditioning, electrical power, pumps, water makers, and sewage treatment.
Fault-Finding & Systems Analysis
Learn step-by-step diagnostic techniques for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical faults under realistic conditions.
Performance Monitoring & Testing
Practise engine performance checks, temperature and pressure readings, and efficiency monitoring using test data and indicators.
Technical Documentation & Procedures
Understand how to interpret system schematics, complete defect reports, and apply operational procedures in line with MCA expectations.
Safe Systems of Work within an Engineering Environment
Learn to apply safe systems of work in an engineering environment. Complete risk assessments and permits to work in accordance with the Code of Safe Working Practices for selected electrical and mechanical maintenance tasks.
0
100
What’s Included
Comprehensive course materials
Daily hot lunch
Coffee station and snacks
Free rescheduling up to 7 days before course start
PREREQUSITES
Minimum age
18 years old
Language Requirement
A good level of spoken and written English is required, as all training and assessments are conducted in English
Certification
Must hold a valid MCA Approved Engine Course 1 (AEC 1) certificate
Meet Your
Instructors
Frequently
Asked Questions
Who should take AEC2?
AEC2 is for candidates who have completed AEC1 and want to progress further into professional marine engineering roles on yachts and small commercial vessels.
What does AEC2 add beyond AEC1?
AEC2 builds on AEC1 by covering more complex systems and operational responsibility, including electrical distribution, hydraulics, refrigeration, freshwater and sewage systems, maintenance planning, and safe engineering operations.
Is AEC2 relevant for experienced shore-based engineers?
Very much so. Engineers transitioning from shore-based industries often find AEC2 bridges the gap between technical knowledge and marine-specific systems, making them far more employable in the superyacht and small vessel sector.
Does AEC2 lead to an MCA engineering licence?
AEC2 forms part of the required training for MCA Small Vessel Engineer Officer qualifications and can also contribute toward an MCA Marine Engine Operator Licence (MEOL), depending on your pathway and sea service.
What systems are covered in AEC2?
AEC2 includes both theoretical and practical training in:
- Electrical distribution systems
- Refrigeration systems
- Hydraulic systems
- Freshwater and sewage systems
- Safe lifting and slinging
- Engineering maintenance systems
- Legislative and management responsibilities
Is there an exam in AEC2?
Yes. AEC2 includes written examinations and practical assessments to confirm competence in operating, maintaining, and managing onboard engineering systems safely.
What is an MCA Small Vessel Engineer?
An MCA Small Vessel Engineer is a certified maritime professional responsible for operating and maintaining vessel machinery on yachts and small commercial vessels, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant operations.
I’m already a qualified engineer — can I fast-track?
Possibly. Many engineers from shore-based industries may qualify for exemptions within the Small Vessel Engineer syllabus. Galileo’s training team will review your background and guide you through the most efficient pathway.
How important is English for AEC2?
English is critical — written and spoken. You’ll be working with technical documentation, safety procedures, and assessments that require clear professional communication.
Where can AEC1 + AEC2 take my career?
Together, AEC1 and AEC2 open the door to a long-term engineering career at sea, including progression toward Small Vessel Chief Engineer, with many Galileo graduates now working successfully in the superyacht industry worldwide.