Deck/Engineer or Junior Engineer

An entry level, dual role often held on mid sized yachts which is a mix of deck work and assisting the engineering department. A Junior Engineer position would be aboard a large yacht, and consist of mainly cleaning duties and manual labour. This is a great way to gain experience in the engineering department. Deck/Engineer or Junior Engineers are logging sea time, and completing modules towards a Small Vessel Engineering Officer Of the Watch Regulation III/1

Third Engineer

Aboard large yachts with a bigger engineering department, a 3rd engineer will be someone who is closely monitored and carrying out the more basic tasks, minor services, and taking in as much knowledge as possible. 3rd Engineers are logging sea time, and completing modules towards a 2nd Engineer Officer Of the Watch Regulation III/2

Second Engineer

A 2nd engineer is someone with solid experience, and likely an EOOW license, with more responsibility for maintenance and systems, working closely with the Chief Engineer. A 2nd engineer is working towards an Chief Engineer OOW Regulation III/2

Chief Engineer

A Chief Engineer is responsible for the maintenance of all onboard systems, maintenance schedules, shipyard schedules, and managing the engineering department.

Mostly, they drink tea, if you ask all the other crew on board.

The Engineering Journey

Career Progression

Yachting Industry Introduction & Guidance Introduction to the roles and responsibilities on board, certifications, and standards required by a seafarer in the yachting industry

STCW Basic Safety Training The Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Convention mandates that ALL seafarers undergo training modules for Personal Survival Techniques, Safety & Social Responsibility, Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting, Elementary First Aid

MCA Approved Engines Course (1)

This is an entry-level maritime training course providing essential theory and hands-on skills for marine diesel engines, covering fuel, cooling, electrical systems, and maintenance for commercial vessel codes. It's the first step in an engineering pathway.

MCA Approved Engine Course (2)

AEC 2 is the essential second part of a small vessel engineering qualification, building on AEC1 to provide advanced theory and practical skills in refrigeration, electrical systems, hydraulics, maintenance, and safety for small vessel engineers working toward a Small Vessel CoC (Certificate of Competency)

RYA Personal Watercraft Practical qualification teaching safe and confident jet ski (PWC) operation, covering essential skills like launching, recovery, high/low-speed handling, collision avoidance, navigation, and emergency procedures

RYA Power Boat Level II Beginner-friendly, two-day practical course teaching essential powerboat handling, seamanship, and safety for inshore waters, covering close-quarters maneuvers, man overboard recovery, basic navigation, and collision regulations, leading to an internationally recognized International Certificate of Competence (ICC) application and useful for yacht tender operations.

Proficiency in Security Awareness Mandatory maritime training for seafarers without specific security duties, teaching them to recognize threats, support ship security plans, and maintain vigilance as per the STCW Code and ISPS Code. It covers recognizing security risks, understanding security levels, identifying dangerous items, and knowing emergency procedures, ensuring a heightened awareness to contribute to overall maritime safety.

Tender Operators Focuses on skills for superyacht crew to manage day/night guest transfers, passenger safety, and boat handling, building on Powerboat Level 2 with practical experience, preparing them for maritime careers.

Deck Work This is an intensive course covering practical seamanship, vessel maintenance, safety, and operations in preparation for the day to day aboard

Short Range Radio Certification This certificate is required to operate a marine VHF radio on a boat, proving you know how to use it for routine and emergency communication

BOW Sponsored Education for Engineering Candidates

Introductory kelp e-Learning Modules-

These modules are designed to get you started. Our recipients have access to over 1,000 modules for a two year period

• Introduction to Mental Health for Yacht Crew

• IAMI Introduction to Yachting & Yachting Life

• Mental Health Support and Resources for Yacht Crew

• Introduction to Budgeting & Accounting

• Leadership & Management Skills

• The Crew Academy Learning Styles Course

• Kelp Managing Relationships Course