Starting a career in the yachting industry is an exciting journey, filled with opportunities to explore the world while working aboard luxurious vessels. But before you can step aboard as crew, you must prove that you’re medically fit for the unique demands of life at sea. This is where the ENG1 Medical Certificate comes in. In this guide, I’ll break down what the ENG1 certificate is, why you need it, how to obtain it, the costs involved, the necessary documents, and how long the process typically takes.
What is the ENG1 Medical Certificate?
The ENG1 is an official medical certificate issued by doctors approved by the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). It’s designed to ensure that all seafarers, including yacht crew, are medically fit to work in a demanding environment. Since working on a yacht involves long hours, heavy lifting, and exposure to the elements, it’s important to confirm that you don’t have any medical conditions that could put you or your crewmates at risk.
The certificate is valid for up to two years and is required not only by employers but also for enrolling in other necessary training courses, like the STCW Basic Safety Training.
How to Get Your ENG1 Medical Certificate
1. Find an MCA-Approved Doctor
The ENG1 exam must be conducted by a doctor who has been approved by the MCA. You can find an official list of these doctors on the UK government website. While most of them are in the UK, there are also MCA-approved doctors in other countries, particularly in major yachting hubs like France, Spain, and the U.S.
2. Book Your Appointment
Once you’ve found a doctor, call or email their office to book an appointment. Availability varies, so if you’re planning to start work soon, I recommend booking as early as possible. Some doctors can see you within a few days, while others may have longer waiting times.
3. Prepare the Required Documents
Before your appointment, make sure you have:
- A valid passport or photo ID
- Any medical records related to past conditions
- A list of medications you’re currently taking
- Glasses or contact lenses if you use them
If you’ve had an ENG1 before, bringing your previous certificate can also be helpful.
4. Attend the Medical Examination
The exam itself is relatively quick and usually takes around 30-45 minutes. The doctor will check:
- Your medical history
- Height and weight
- Blood pressure
- Vision (including color blindness)
- Hearing
- General physical health
- A urine test to check for diabetes and other conditions
The doctor will also ask if you have any existing medical conditions that could impact your ability to work on a yacht, such as asthma, epilepsy, or heart conditions. In most cases, if everything is normal, you’ll receive your ENG1 certificate on the spot.
5. Receive Your Certificate
If you pass, you’ll get one of two certificates:
- Unrestricted ENG1 – This means you’re fully fit to work at sea without any limitations.
- Restricted ENG1 – This means you have a medical condition that limits where or how you can work.
If the doctor finds a serious medical issue, you may be declared unfit for work at sea and will receive an ENG3 form explaining why. If you believe the decision is unfair, you can request a second opinion from another MCA-approved doctor.
How Much Does the ENG1 Medical Cost?
The cost varies depending on where you take the exam, but in the UK, it typically ranges from £80 to £150. If you’re taking it abroad, prices can be slightly higher, especially in major yachting locations like France or the U.S. Some employers will reimburse you for the cost once you’re hired, but if you’re getting it on your own before applying for jobs, be prepared to cover the fee yourself.
How Long Does It Take to Get an ENG1?
The whole process is fairly quick. If you find an available doctor, you can book an appointment within a few days. The medical itself takes less than an hour, and you’ll usually receive your certificate immediately unless further tests are required. In rare cases where additional medical evaluations are needed, it may take a few extra days or weeks to receive a final decision.
What Happens If You Don’t Pass?
If you don’t meet the required medical standards, the doctor will explain the reasons and issue an ENG3 form. Depending on the condition, you might be given temporary restrictions or advised on treatments that could help you pass in the future. If you strongly disagree with the decision, you can seek a second opinion from another MCA-approved doctor, but keep in mind that not all medical conditions are eligible for appeal.
Final Thoughts
The ENG1 Medical Certificate is a key step in starting your yachting career. While it might seem like a small hurdle, it’s an essential requirement that ensures both your safety and the safety of those you work with. The process is simple: find an approved doctor, book your appointment, bring the necessary documents, and take the exam. With a valid ENG1 in hand, you’ll be one step closer to landing your first yacht job and setting sail on an exciting adventure, chech out exactly how here: How to become a yacht stewardess.
If you’re serious about working in yachting, don’t wait too long to get your ENG1 sorted—it’s one of the most important things you’ll need before stepping aboard!
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