RYA Diesel Engines
Gain the knowledge and confidence to understand, maintain and troubleshoot your yacht's diesel engine. This one-day RYA Diesel Engine course teaches the essential systems, routine maintenance and practical fault-finding skills needed to keep your engine running reliably afloat.
Description

Engine problems are one of the most common causes of interrupted passages and unnecessary call-outs.
This one-day RYA Diesel Engine course gives you a practical understanding of modern marine diesel engines and the skills to keep them running reliably.
Discover how the key systems work, carry out routine servicing and identify common faults before they become costly breakdowns.
Whether you're a yacht owner, cruising sailor, motor cruiser or future Yachtmaster, you'll leave better equipped to look after your engine and make informed decisions afloat.
The course also satisfies the diesel engine requirement for the AMSA Sailing Master qualification.
Course highlights
- Understand how a modern marine diesel engine works
- Carry out routine servicing and preventative maintenance
- Diagnose common engine faults with confidence
- Reduce the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs
- Become more self-reliant when cruising
- Gain an internationally recognised RYA Diesel Engine certificate
Instruction and location
Learn in small groups with a qualified RYA Diesel Engine instructor at Flying Fish Sailing's waterside training centre in Sydney.
Training combines clear explanations with hands-on demonstrations using a dedicated classroom-based marine diesel engine together with a wide range of real engine components and systems.
See the FAQs below for detailed course content, booking information and private course options.
Before you start
No previous experience is required.
This introductory course is suitable for complete beginners and anyone wanting greater confidence around marine diesel engines.
What's included
- Full-day tuition with a qualified RYA Diesel Engine instructor
- Hands-on learning using a classroom-based marine diesel engine
- Practical demonstrations using a wide range of real engine components and systems
- All training equipment and course materials
- RYA Diesel Engine workbook and training pack
Faq
- Booking information
- Book your place using the dates and booking links above.
- We recommend booking early as places are limited.
- View our Terms and Conditions.
- Can I book a private course for my crew?
- Yes — we welcome private RYA Diesel Engine courses for yacht owners, crews, clubs and organisations.
- Private courses are priced as five places and you can bring up to six people.
- Private dates can often be arranged to suit your schedule.
- If you're interested, please contact us using the enquiry link at the top of this page.
- Who is this course for?
- This course is ideal for yacht owners, cruising sailors, motor boaters, charter skippers and anyone wanting greater confidence around marine diesel engines.
- No engineering background is required.
- Suitable for complete beginners through to experienced sailors wanting a better understanding of engine maintenance and fault finding.
- Do I need any previous experience?
- No previous mechanical or boating experience is required.
- The course starts with the basics and builds practical understanding step by step.
- What will I learn on the RYA Diesel Engine course?
- You will learn how modern marine diesel engines work and how to keep them reliable afloat.
- Topics include:
- Engine operating principles
- Fuel systems and fuel bleeding
- Cooling systems and impellers
- Air intake and exhaust systems
- Battery charging and engine electrics
- Routine servicing and preventative maintenance
- Diagnosing common engine problems
- Essential onboard spares and tools
- Is this course practical?
- Yes — this is a practical classroom-based course with demonstrations and hands-on discussion around real marine diesel systems and components.
- The focus is understanding, routine maintenance and solving common problems rather than major engine repairs.
- Will I learn to service my own engine?
- You will gain the confidence to carry out routine checks and simple maintenance tasks.
- You’ll also learn how to identify issues early and communicate more effectively with marine technicians when required.
- Will this help prevent engine breakdowns?
- Yes — many engine failures are caused by simple issues such as blocked filters, overheating, contaminated fuel or missed maintenance.
- This course helps you spot warning signs early and reduce the risk of unnecessary breakdowns.
- Is this course useful for Yachtmasters and commercial skippers?
- Yes — understanding diesel engines is an important professional skill for Yachtmasters, charter skippers, delivery crew and sailing instructors.
- This course is also a prerequisite for the AMSA Sailing Master qualification.
- What qualification will I receive?
- On successful completion, you will receive the internationally recognised RYA Diesel Engine certificate.
- What should I do after this course?
- The best way to build confidence is to start carrying out regular engine checks and maintenance on real boats.
- For broader practical skills across onboard systems, continue with our Essential Yacht Maintenance course.