Key takeaways
- ✓AEC 1 and AEC 2 are MCA-approved courses, each usually five days (about 30–35 hours).
- ✓AEC 1 covers diesel engine basics, fuel, cooling, lubrication, electrics and fault finding.
- ✓AEC 2 builds on AEC 1: refrigeration, hydraulics, electrical distribution, water systems and maintenance.
- ✓Together they are a step towards the Marine Engine Operator Licence (MEOL) for small-yacht engineers.
- ✓Many deckhand and sole-engineer job adverts ask for AEC — it makes a CV stand out.
AEC 1 vs AEC 2 at a glance
| AEC 1 | AEC 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Usually 5 days (~30–35 hours) | Usually 5 days (~35 hours) |
| Entry | Age 18+; no prior course needed | AEC 1 (or accepted equivalent) first |
| Main topics | Two- and four-stroke diesel engines, fuel, cooling, lubrication, engine electrics, corrosion, fault finding, safe working | Refrigeration, hydraulics, electrical distribution, fresh/sewage water systems, planned maintenance, lifting and slinging |
| Assessment | Short assessment at the end | Written exam on the last day |
| Typical use | Deckhands, mates, sole engineers on smaller yachts | Next step for engineers working towards MEOL |
Who should take the AEC?
- •Deckhands who want more responsibility and better pay.
- •Delivery skippers and mates who want to handle engine problems at sea with confidence.
- •Anyone planning a career as a yacht engineer (the first step towards MEOL and the Y-tickets).
- •Sailing yacht crew, where the mate often doubles as engineer.
What does the AEC let you do?
The AEC on its own is a training certificate, not a full engineering licence. Some sources say AEC 1 can allow you to act as engineer on smaller sailing yachts close to a safe haven, but the exact limits depend on the flag and the vessel's code. In practice, owners and captains treat it as proof that you understand engines and can do daily checks and basic maintenance safely.
Combined with AEC 2, sea service and further modules, it counts towards the Marine Engine Operator Licence (MEOL) — the qualification for chief engineers on smaller UK-flagged yachts.
How to make the most of it
- •Take AEC 1 right after STCW Basic Safety — it is one of the most useful add-ons for a new deckhand.
- •Log your engine-room hours: they matter for later engineering tickets.
- •Upload the certificate to your Maritime Delivery profile so it shows as verified.
- •Mention it in the first lines of your CV for deckhand, mate and sole-engineer roles.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the AEC course?+
AEC 1 and AEC 2 are each usually five days, about 30–35 hours, depending on the training provider.
Do I need AEC 1 before AEC 2?+
Yes. AEC 2 normally requires AEC 1 (or an accepted equivalent) first.
Is the AEC an engineering licence?+
Not on its own. It is a training certificate that counts towards the Marine Engine Operator Licence (MEOL). What it allows on board depends on the flag and the vessel.
Is AEC useful for deckhands?+
Yes — many deckhand and mate adverts ask for it, and it shows you can help with daily engine checks and maintenance.
Sources
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