MCA Approved Engine Course (AEC 1)

Approved Engine Course Part 1 (AEC1)

• Certification: MCA
• Recognition: Worldwide
• Suitable For: Industry-transition engineers
• Experience Level: No experience required
• Duration: 5 Days
• Certificate Validity: Lifetime

Why This Course Matters

AEC1 is the industry-standard qualification for small vessel engineers. It’s often a minimum requirement for working as a junior or sole engineer on yachts under 300GT. Issued by the MCA, this certificate immediately increases your eligibility for engineering roles across yachts, workboats, fishing vessels, and survey craft.

Course Structure

Diesel Engine Fundamentals

Understand the 2-stroke and 4-stroke combustion cycles. Learn how marine diesel engines operate, including the function of engine components and systems.

Auxiliary Systems & Routine Maintenance

Study gearboxes, shafting and propulsion systems. Basic electrics including batteries and power generation. Undertake basic fault finding, inspections and maintenance tasks.

Safe Engineering Practices & the Correct Use of Tools

Understand safety, risk assessment, permit to work procedures for engineering tasks. The correct and safe use of tools and equipment.

Environmental Awareness & Emergency Response

Understand pollution prevention techniques, waste handling. Understand procedures for dealing with fire, breakdowns and mechanical failure.

Useful Information

What’s Included

• Comprehensive course materials
• Daily hot lunch
• Coffee station and snacks
• Free rescheduling up to 7 days before course start

Accommodation (available at additional cost)

• Shared and private rooms
• Includes breakfast
• Swimming pool
• Self-service laundry
• Full board meals available

Prerequisites

• 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