Self-paced yacht engineering training designed to build confidence, strengthen technical understanding, and prepare you for practical engine room readiness onboard.
The Engineering Department is the core of a yacht’s technical operation — responsible for ensuring that all mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems function safely and reliably. From engine performance and power generation to HVAC, watermakers, fuel systems, and waste treatment, engineering supports the seamless delivery of luxury at sea.
Whether you're new to the engine room and need a structured introduction, working toward AEC certification, planning an engineer transition, or currently onboard and looking to deepen your technical competence — this package provides a clear, professionally structured foundation.
These are ONLINE courses and tests viewable in your browser window.
BUY NOW to get instant access to these online courses and tests.
Marine Engineering Course 1
Marine Engineering Course 1:This course is a theoretical introduction to the essential knowledge and practical skills required to work effectively in a yacht engine room environment.
This module introduces the fundamental principles of both compression ignition (diesel) and spark ignition (petrol) engines. Learners will gain an understanding of their construction, operation, and key differences in combustion processes.
This module explains the operating cycles of diesel engines and explores their key constructional features. Learners will study the four-stroke and two-stroke cycles, identify main engine components, and understand how each part contributes to the efficient operation of a marine diesel engine.
This module provides a comprehensive understanding of the marine diesel fuel system and its safe operation. Learners will study system layout, fuel treatment, and delivery processes, applying correct procedures and identifying potential risks to ensure safety and efficiency.
This module explores the function and importance of air in the combustion process. Learners will examine air intake and exhaust systems, turbocharging, and the relationship between air supply and efficient fuel combustion, reinforcing theoretical knowledge with practical examples.
This module develops knowledge of the design, operation, and maintenance of marine engine cooling systems. Learners will study seawater and freshwater circuits, pumping components, and safe operating practices that prevent overheating and maintain engine reliability.
This module covers the purpose and operation of lubrication systems in marine diesel engines. Learners will understand oil circulation, filtration, and cooling, and develop the competence to maintain the system and its components to prevent wear, contamination, and failure.
This module introduces the principles and components of marine electrical systems associated with engine operation. Learners will gain an understanding of batteries, alternators, starters, and basic electrical distribution, including safe maintenance and troubleshooting practices.
This module develops knowledge of marine power transmission systems, including gearboxes, couplings, stern tubes, and propellers. Learners will understand how engine power is transferred to propulsion, and how to operate and maintain these systems safely and efficiently.
This module provides an understanding of key hull fittings found on marine vessels. Learners will explore the function and maintenance of seacocks, through-hull valves, and cathodic protection systems, emphasizing safe operation and corrosion prevention.
This module outlines essential legislative and safety requirements for engineers at sea. Learners will study safe working practices, risk assessment, confined-space entry, and fire prevention, as well as environmental compliance through MARPOL and the UK Clean Maritime Plan, promoting sustainable and responsible vessel operation.
The score for this course contributes towards an average final score after completing all the courses.
Marine Engineering Course 2
Marine Engineering Course 2:This course builds on foundational knowledge, focusing on advanced yacht systems and maintenance skills for working in a yacht engine room environment.
This module explains the operation and components of a compression-type refrigerant plant. Learners will study the refrigeration cycle, changes in refrigerant state, and key system parts. The module also covers fault diagnosis, safe refrigerant handling, and procedures for charging and discharging the system.
This module develops competent knowledge of a vessel’s electrical distribution system. Learners will study system layout, testing, and troubleshooting procedures, and learn how to safely isolate and operate both fixed and portable equipment using correct personal protective equipment and safety practices.
This module introduces the principles and operation of basic hydraulic systems onboard vessels. Learners will examine hydraulic components, interpret system drawings and symbols, and develop the ability to identify faults, carry out routine maintenance, and ensure safe operation.
This module explains the design and operation of a vessel’s freshwater system. Learners will understand the requirements for storage, treatment, and testing of freshwater supplies, ensuring the system’s safety, reliability, and compliance with hygiene standards.
This module outlines the regulatory requirements for sewage treatment systems onboard vessels. Learners will identify the hazards associated with hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), ammonia (NH₃), and methane (CH₄), as well as the control measures necessary to protect crew health and maintain environmental compliance.
This module explains the key legislative and management requirements that apply to marine engineering operations. Learners will explore international and national regulations, codes of practice, and onboard management systems that ensure compliance, safety, and environmental responsibility.
This module explores the various maintenance systems used onboard vessels, including planned maintenance and condition monitoring systems. Learners will understand the importance of record-keeping and data collection for trend analysis, and gain insight into condition monitoring techniques such as lubricating oil and vibration analysis.
This module aims to identify and explain the practical skills you will need to perform safe and effective work on bolt and nut assemblies, including torquing, inspecting bolted connections, and correctly fitting split pins and lock nuts.
This module introduces the principles of safe systems of work in an engineering environment. Learners will gain an understanding of risk assessments, material safety data sheets (MSDS), and permit-to-work systems, applying these tools to ensure safety and compliance in all maintenance and operational activities.
This module explains how to carry out lifting and slinging operations safely and efficiently. Learners will understand manual lifting principles, inspection and maintenance of lifting equipment, and correct use of lifting gear for transporting heavy objects, ensuring safe practice throughout all operations.
The score for this course contributes towards an average final score after completing all the courses.
This online course introduces the key foundations and advanced concepts of yacht engineering, designed to help you develop practical understanding, confidence, and a clearer view of the yacht engineer career path — entirely at your own pace.
Over 16+ hours of interactive lessons, videos, quizzes, and real-life scenarios
Access 70 detailed lessons across 15 modules covering yacht engineering and onboard technical operations
Unlimited login access - learn anytime, anywhere with flexible online training for 12 months
If you are not sure about starting a long-term career in the Luxury Yacht Industry access the world’s most comprehensive and succinct career guidance tool here, and find out what to do, when to do it, and where to do it, at your own pace.
Watch the Overview Video below or visit the
Academy by Ephemeris Website
We recommend starting with the Introduction to Yachting Course.
This course gives you a clear understanding of how the industry operates, what each department does, and which career pathways may suit you before progressing further.
Supported and endorsed by:
Promotes global advocacy protecting seafarers’ rights and dignity.
A human rights consultancy specialising in the maritime environment globally
Protecting Crew Lives is an independent, advocacy-led, informational community
