The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) qualifications are globally recognised certifications for maritime professionals, ensuring high safety and competence standards. These qualifications cover a wide range of careers at sea, from deckhands to captains and engineers.

For leisure and commercial mariners, the RYA/MCA Certificates of Competence allow individuals to operate yachts and small commercial vessels legally. These include RYA Day Skipper, Yachtmaster, and Advanced Powerboat certificates, which can be commercially endorsed.

For professional seafarers, the MCA STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) courses are essential for working on ships. Key modules include Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention, First Aid, and Security Awareness.

Higher-level qualifications like the Officer of the Watch (OOW) and Master 200/500/3000 GT enable career progression in the commercial sector.

MCA qualifications ensure safety, competence, and legal compliance, making them essential for anyone pursuing a career or operating vessels at sea.