The ENG1 seafarer medical
Researched reference · Published 2026-07-06. AtlantisDesk compiles this from public industry and government sources; we are not, and do not claim to be, former yacht crew.
Figures verified July 2026 — costs, salaries, visa and certification rules change; verify with official sources before relying on them.
The ENG1 is the UK MCA seafarer medical and the industry default for yacht crew. Here is what it checks, what it costs and how long it lasts.
What the ENG1 is
The ENG1 is the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) seafarer medical fitness certificate, and it is the industry default for yacht crew. It can only be issued by an MCA-Approved Doctor — there are approved doctors in the UK and overseas (including France, Spain, the US and South Africa). See the MCA list of approved doctors.
What is tested
- Vision — distance and near vision, plus colour vision (Ishihara, with a CAD test as a fallback).
- Hearing.
- General health — blood pressure, BMI, urine test, medical history and a physical examination.
Approximate cost
Costs vary by country and doctor: about £115 in the UK, €120–€150 in Europe, $140–$175 in the US, and around R2,500 in South Africa.
How long it lasts
An ENG1 is valid for up to two years for adults, and one year for ages 16–18. A doctor may issue a shorter certificate depending on your health.
Possible outcomes
The result can be fit, fit with restrictions, or temporarily or permanently unfit. A failed result can stand for up to five years unless the underlying condition is medically resolved.
Conditions that can restrict or disqualify
These are assessed case by case and are not automatic fails: insulin-treated diabetes, epilepsy, significant heart disease, stroke, serious lung disease, severe hearing loss, some mental-health conditions, substance dependence, and colour-vision deficiency (which may restrict bridge duties).
Is a generic “yacht medical” enough?
The ENG1 is the default and a generic yacht medical or a GP note is not equivalent. Any accepted equivalent must meet the MLC 2006 standard. When in doubt, check the GOV.UK seafarer medical guidance.
This is general information, not medical, legal, or immigration advice.
Related guides
- How to get a yacht job with no experience (the pillar)
- STCW Basic Training explained — the other core prerequisite
Sources: GOV.UK seafarer medical certification, MCA, UKSA.
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