Superyacht Engineer
Powering maritime innovation as an engineer, maintaining peak performance and reliability for smooth sailing.
Your Path To success
Embarking on a career aboard a superyacht as an engineer offers an exhilarating and rewarding journey filled with opportunities to explore the vast, open seas and work on magnificent vessels. As an engineer, you will become an integral part of the crew, responsible for critical tasks such as maintaining and operating the vessel’s machinery, ensuring safety protocols are adhered to, and overseeing technical operations to keep the yacht running smoothly. This dynamic and adventurous career path allows you to develop a diverse skill set in maritime engineering, travel to breathtaking destinations, and form lifelong friendships with fellow seafarers.
The starting salary for an engineer aboard a superyacht varies depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, and the size of the yacht. However, it typically ranges from €3,000 to €5,000 per month, with the potential for additional bonuses and benefits. The superyacht industry values dedication, technical expertise, and problem-solving skills, welcoming talented individuals regardless of gender.
But wait, there’s more! Forget about rent, groceries, and even toiletries—everything’s sorted while you’re on board, giving you the chance to stack up some serious cash while exploring amazing destinations around the world. With accommodations, meals, and essentials provided, you can save a significant portion of your earnings. Imagine waking up in a new exotic location, working alongside a diverse and vibrant crew, and having the opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures and environments. A career as an engineer on a superyacht offers not just a job, but a lifestyle filled with adventure, financial benefits, and personal growth.
Whether you’re navigating the Mediterranean or sailing through the Caribbean, life as an engineer on a superyacht is your ticket to an extraordinary career and life experience. Join us and take the first step towards an unparalleled journey on the high seas.
The Approved Engine Course
Looking to kickstart your career in marine engineering? The MCA Approved Engine Course (AEC) is the perfect starting point. In just five days or 30 hours, this comprehensive course covers everything you need to know about diesel engines.
Throughout our course, you’ll delve into essential topics related to diesel engines, including compression ignition engines, fuel systems, cooling, lubrication, electrical systems, and more. From understanding the intricacies of 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines to mastering fuel systems, electrical setups, and cooling mechanisms, you’ll emerge fully equipped to tackle the challenges of the job head-on. The exam process involves continuous assessment of your practical abilities alongside a one-hour written exam upon completion of the course.

Approved Engine Course
Duration: 5 days
Location: Cape Town
Cost: $950 / R17350 (exchange rate dependant)
Why Choose this course
The MCA Approved Engine Course (AEC) Certificate offers the fundamental entry-level training for individuals eyeing a career aboard commercially and privately operated yachts and sailing vessels. This certificate opens doors for those with minimal experience or non-maritime technical backgrounds, ensuring they meet the industry-specific standards set by the MCA.
Advantages of holding an AEC Certificate include enhanced job prospects, particularly amidst a growing demand for qualified yacht engineers. This certification is also a crucial prerequisite for progression to higher levels of engineering qualifications.
In terms of the MCA requirements for commercially and privately operated vessels, the progression for engineering qualifications is from the basic Approved Engine Course (AEC) to the Marine Engine Operators Licence (MEOL) and then the three levels of Chief Engineer: Y4, Y3, Y2 and Y1.
PRE-REQUITE AND QUALIFICATIONS
Students must be 18 years or older.
Must have completed:
- Designated Security Duties (DSD)
- Elementary First Aid (EFA)
- Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR)
- Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
On completion of each course you will receive a Certificate of Completion.
Our Engineer Package
Our Engineering Deckhand Course serves as the initial step in your journey within the Superyacht industry. While it establishes the foundational knowledge, there are supplementary courses vital for your advancement.
Included in our Engineering Deckhand package are essential certifications tailored specifically for engineering roles. This includes the Approved Engine Course (AEC), conducted at a certified training centre in Hout Bay. Alongside the AEC, you’ll complete comprehensive STCW Safety and Security courses relevant to engineering, as well as the RYA Powerboat Level II course.
To support your journey, we provide you with our Smooth Sailing handbook and you get to attend our Navigating Your Success workshop.
To meet industry standards, we also facilitate your SAMSA medical certification, ensuring you’re fully compliant with mandatory requirements for employment in the industry.

Engineer package
Duration: 19 days
Location: Cape Town & Hermanus
Cost: R34357 (exchange rate dependant)
STCW Basic Safety Training
Approved Engine Course
Powerboat Level II
SMOOTH SAILING EBOOK
NAVIGATING YOUR SUCCESS WORKSHOP
samsa medical
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical duties and responsibilities of a yacht engineer?
Yacht engineers are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and operation of all mechanical and electrical systems onboard, including engines, generators, HVAC systems, and more.
What is the work schedule like for a yacht engineer?
Work schedules can vary widely depending on the vessel’s itinerary and operational requirements. Engineers often work long hours, sometimes in shifts, and may be on call for emergencies.
What are the career progression opportunities for yacht engineers?
Career progression may involve gaining additional certifications, pursuing specialized training in areas like hybrid propulsion systems or environmental compliance, and seeking positions with larger or more prestigious vessels.
What advice do you have for someone considering a career as a yacht engineer?
Pursue a solid education in marine engineering, gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions, and be prepared for a dynamic and challenging career that offers opportunities for travel and personal growth.
What our Students had to say
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+27 68 510 0026
info@absoluteyachting.co.za