Superyacht Engineer Essentials Package

Certification
MCA
Who issues your official qualification
Recognition
Worldwide
Where your certificate is accepted. Check with your flag state for specific approvals.
Suitable For
Engineers entering yachting
Who the course is designed for
Experience Level
No experience required
Minimum experience needed to join
Duration
10 Days
Training days only, breaks are not included
Certificate Validity
Lifetime
How long your certificate stays valid

Why This
Course Matters

This package provides the minimum qualifications needed to start working as a junior engineer or assistant on yachts under 200GT. It’s designed for those ready to pursue engineering seriously, giving you both the STCW safety foundation and MCA-approved technical training required by law for many roles.

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

STCW Safety & Compliance

Gain all mandatory safety certifications including firefighting, survival, first aid, and security awareness.

Technical Competency with AEC1

Learn how to operate and maintain diesel engines, fuel and cooling systems, and apply safe workshop practices.

Emergency & Environmental Readiness

Understand how to respond to onboard engineering emergencies and follow pollution control procedures.

0
100

PREREQUSITES

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

Meet Your
Instructors

Garrod Hutchison
Head of School of Marine Engineering

Over 45 years’ maritime experience including Royal Navy service aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia. Former Superyacht Chief Engineer with extensive technical instruction expertise.

Tom Sebastian
Chief Instructor, Fire, Safety & Survival

With Galileo for 10 years, Tom brings extensive experience from commercial and cruise ships. His BSc in Management coupled with IMO certification ensures practical, engaging instruction based on real-world scenarios.

Shemaine Sebastian
Chief Instructor, Health & Safety

A qualified nurse with maritime experience as Safety Officer on cruise ships, Shemaine joined Galileo in 2014. Her medical background and IMO certification make her an expert instructor for medical and safety courses.

Mike Wall
MCA Engineering Examiner

With two master’s degrees and 45+ years in shipping, Mike is a former Chief Engineer, global surveyor, and respected author. His deep technical knowledge and real-world insight set a high standard for engineering excellence at sea.

Frequently
Asked Questions

Who are engineering packages designed for?

Engineering packages are ideal for career changers from land-based technical roles, such as mechanics, electricians, technicians, or engineers.
They’re also suitable for crew planning to work on small vessels, yachts, and workboats where multi-skilled engineers are essential.

Can I move into marine engineering without sea experience?

Yes. Many yacht engineers start from land-based mechanical or electrical backgrounds.
Engineering packages give you the marine-specific knowledge and certificates needed to make that transition safely.

Why should I choose an engineering package instead of just STCW?

STCW only covers safety and survival, not engineering ability. AEC1 and AEC2 formally certify that you understand marine engines and systems—fuel, cooling, electrics, lubrication, and maintenance—on paper. An engineering package combines STCW with AEC certification, giving employers proof, not assumptions, that you can work as an engineer.

Is marine engineering a good route on smaller vessels and yachts?

Yes. On small yachts and commercial vessels, engineers often handle engines, generators, pumps, electrics, and maintenance.
This makes engineering one of the most secure and versatile career paths at sea.

How much do junior yacht or small-vessel engineers earn?

Entry-level engineers typically earn USD 3,500–5,000 per month, depending on vessel type and experience.
Engineers on smaller vessels often gain hands-on experience faster, leading to quicker progression.

What’s the difference between the engineering packages?

  • Essentials: Introductory marine systems and engine knowledge
  • Standard: Deeper hands-on maintenance and fault-finding
  • Complete: Strong foundation for long-term engineering progression

Each level increases responsibility, confidence, and job opportunities.

Do engineering packages include hands-on training?

Yes. Training focuses on real engines, tools, servicing, and fault-finding, not just classroom theory.
This is especially valuable for those transitioning from shore-based jobs.

Do I need a visa to take engineering courses in Thailand?

Most students attend on a tourist visa, which is sufficient for training.
If needed, Galileo Maritime Academy can provide a letter of enrolment.

Are tattoos or piercings an issue for engineering roles?

Usually less so than for interior roles. Small tattoos and piercings are generally acceptable.
What matters more is competence, safety awareness, and reliability.

Will an engineering package guarantee me a job?

No course guarantees employment. However, an engineering package gives you skills, certificates, and credibility that employers expect from entry-level marine engineers.
It puts you ahead of candidates with only STCW.

Related courses
and packages

Basic Workshop Skills

Gain hands-on skills in mechanical fitting, basic fabrication, and repairs. Train with tools and techniques every boat owner or crew member needs.
2 Days
26 SEP 2026
Superyacht Engineer Essentials Package
10 Days
12 OCT 2026