Most engines work in a similar way. Marine mechanic training is designed to teach you how engines work and how they deliver thrust to propellers in water as opposed to the wheels on a vehicle. As well as studying mechanics, you'll also get to learn about control units, electrical circuitry, fluid systems, and heating and ventilation systems. Some vessels work by jet propulsion rather than using propellers. Once the basics have been covered, you will usually go on to diagnosis of faults, servicing, and repairs. One of the best ways of doing this is usually to watch a senior marine mechanic who will then oversee your work. Heavy lifting equipment and diagnostic instruments are used on a daily basis for servicing and testing. There are all sorts of factors, which can adversely affect the smooth running of the mechanics. Marine mechanic training should make you aware of what to look out for from corrosive salt, to sea ice, debris getting caught on propellers, or barnacle growth affecting performance. These factors are not generally a problem for vehicles that run on dry land. This is why specialist marine mechanic training is needed if you want to work marine craft and vessels.
There is an incredibly broad range of marine craft. These range from small jet propelled jet-skis, through speedboats, fishing boats, passenger ferries, cruise ships and battleships. Submarines and submersibles are another fascinating subsection of marine mechanics. You may find work in boat yards, boat hire firms, marinas, and the military.