MCA Approved Engine Course 2 (AEC2)

AEC2 Course Overview

You know how the engine works – now it’s time to master the rest of the ship.

The MCA Approved Engine Course 2 (AEC2) is the final step in achieving the full AEC qualification. While AEC1 focuses on the diesel engine, AEC2 expands your scope to the critical “hotel” and auxiliary systems found on modern vessels.

At Palma Sea School, we bridge the gap between theory and reality. Taught by expert marine engineers, this course uses real-world scenarios to teach you how to troubleshoot hydraulics, manage refrigeration cycles, and safely handle electrical faults. This is the knowledge that turns a deckhand into a competent engineer.

Why take this course?

• Unlock “Sole Engineer” Roles: Completing this course qualifies you to work as a Sole Engineer on UK-flagged vessels up to 24m (and <1500kW).
• Career Progression: It is the standard requirement for “Deck/Engineer” roles on larger superyachts, significantly boosting your earning potential.
• Practical Confidence: Learn the “tips of the trade” for fixing blocked toilets, AC failures, and hydraulic leaks before you have guests on board.

What You Will Learn

The AEC2 syllabus covers the complex systems that often cause the most headaches on board.

Advanced Systems & Fluid Power

• Refrigeration & AC: The principles of the refrigeration cycle, gas laws, and safe handling of refrigerants.
• Hydraulics: Understanding circuit diagrams, pumps, actuators, and safe maintenance of hydraulic lifting gear.
• Hotel Services: Fresh water production, treatment, and sewage management (MSD) systems.

Electrical & Maintenance

• Electrical Systems: Working with AC/DC distribution, circuit protection, and isolation procedures.
• Practical Maintenance: Techniques for dismantling, inspecting, and reassembling complex components.

Management & Safety

• Legislation: Deep dive into MARPOL (Pollution) and the Code of Safe Working Practices (COSWP).
• Maintenance Management: How to run a Planned Maintenance System (PMS) and keep accurate engine room records.
• Risk Assessment: Permit to work systems, lifting operations, and safe working loads.

Why Train with Palma Sea School?

• Industry Expert Instructors: Learn from engineers who have managed these exact systems at sea. They illustrate every lesson with real-life examples.
• Central Palma Hub: Our classroom is located on Av. de Gabriel Roca, putting you in the heart of the yachting community.
• Hands-On Focus: We limit class sizes to ensure you get personal attention during practical sessions.

Prerequisites & Assessment

• Prerequisite: You must be over 18 and hold a valid MCA AEC1 certificate (or recognized equivalent).
• Experience: We recommend 1 month of vessel experience between AEC1 and AEC2 to consolidate your learning, though this is not mandatory.
• Assessment: Continuous practical assessment throughout the week and a final written exam.

Ready to complete your qualification?

Secure your place on the AEC2 today and gain the certification you need to take charge of the engine room.