As an introduction to marine engineering, we might reasonably begin by
taking an overall look at the ship. The various duties of a marine
engineer all relate to the operation of the ship in a safe, reliable, efficient
and economic manner. The main propulsion machinery installed will
influence the machinery layout and determine the equipment and
auxiliaries installed. This will further determine the operational and
maintenance requirements for the ship and thus the knowledge
required and the duties to be performed by the marine engineer.