Diploma in Coastal Navigation
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Coastal Navigation
This program prepares you to master the essential techniques and tools for safe and efficient navigation along coastlines. Learn to interpret nautical charts, use Global Positioning Systems (GPS), plan maritime routes, and anticipate the challenges of the coastal environment. This program is ideal for both recreational boaters and maritime professionals.
Key Benefits:
- In-Depth Knowledge: Master nautical charts, tides, currents, and coastal meteorology.
- Practical Skills: Learn to use navigation instruments, GPS, VHF radio, and route planning software.
- Maritime Safety: Develop skills in risk management, emergency response, and regulatory compliance.
- Efficient Planning: Optimize your routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve the efficiency of your voyages.
- Professional Certification: Obtain a recognized diploma that validates your coastal navigation skills.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 30-09-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Recreational boaters who wish to deepen their knowledge and skills for safe and efficient coastal navigation.
- Recreational craft skippers seeking certification and refresher in advanced navigation techniques.
- Nautical students who require a solid foundation in coastal navigation to complement their academic training.
- Maritime professionals interested in expanding their expertise in navigation in coastal areas and ports.
- Sailing enthusiasts who aspire to plan and execute coastal voyages with confidence and safety.
Learning flexibility:
Designed to adapt to your pace: accessible online learning materials 24/7, consultation forums and personalized tutoring.
Objectives and competencies

Interpreting meteorological information for nautical decision-making:
Evaluate the influence of meteorological phenomena (wind, waves, visibility) on route planning and navigation safety.

Apply current maritime regulations to operate recreational vessels safely and legally:
Interpret and apply the regulations on nautical qualifications and the dispatch of vessels to operate within the permitted geographical and technical limits.

Mastering navigation techniques and the use of instruments to determine the vessel's position and course:
Interpret nautical charts, publications and weather forecasts to plan safe routes and optimize fuel consumption.

Manage emergency situations on board, applying safety protocols and basic first aid:
“Prioritize the safety of the crew and passengers by assessing risks, communicating effectively, and applying CPR and bleeding control techniques.”

Select and maintain essential safety and communications equipment for coastal navigation:
“Inspect, test and regularly maintain VHF, GPS, plotter and other equipment, ensuring their proper functioning and updating.”

Interpreting nautical charts and related publications for coastal navigation planning:
“Identify hazards, determine courses and distances, and accurately consider environmental factors (tides, currents, wind).”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Nautical Cartography: chart types, projections, scales.
- Symbols and Abbreviations on Nautical Charts: IHO INT 1, interpretation and use.
- Soundings and Depths: datum, depth reduction, nautical safety.
- Correction of Nautical Charts: Notices to Mariners, nautical publications.
- Tides: causes, types, astronomical phenomena, meteorological influence.
- Tide Forecasting: use of tide tables, calculation of tidal height.
- Tidal Currents: current tables, influence on navigation.
- Coastal Sailing: route planning, considerations of Safety.
- Coastal piloting: use of land landmarks, bearings, and leading lines.
- Navigation aids: lighthouses, buoys, landmarks, and positioning systems.
‘
- Earth’s Atmosphere: composition, structure, pressure, temperature
- Atmospheric Circulation: global and local winds, pressure systems
- Cloud Formation: classification, identification, altitude, significance
- Precipitation: types, measurement, intensity, ice formation
- World Oceans: currents, salinity, temperature, bathymetry
- Waves and Tides: generation, propagation, prediction, coastal effects
- El NiƱo/La NiƱa: impact on global and regional climate
- Meteorological and Oceanographic Instrumentation: buoys, satellites, radars
- Interpretation of Meteorological and Oceanographic Maps: isobars, isotherms, currents
- Weather and sea state forecasting: models, information sources, uncertainty
‘
- Introduction to coastal navigation: principles and definitions
- Nautical charts: types, scales, projections, and datum
- Nautical symbols: interpretation of symbols, abbreviations, and notes
- Tides: causes, components, prediction, and tide tables
- Tidal currents: types, effects on navigation, and data
- Navigation instruments: compass, log, sounding lead, and bearings
- Determining position: lines of position (LOPs) and fix
- Coastal route: route planning, marks, and hazards
- Pilotting techniques: use of bearings, leading, and distances
- Correction of drift and leeway: wind and current
‘
- Introduction to nautical charts: types, scales, projections, and datum.
- Symbols and abbreviations: interpretation of cartographic information.
- Depths and soundings: sounding datum, corrections for tide and trim.
- Tides: causes, types of tides, tide prediction (graphical methods and tables).
- Tidal currents: influence, current tables, calculation of resultant current.
- True, magnetic, and compass bearings: magnetic declination, compass deviation.
- Course calculation: correction for wind and current, effective bearing.
- Distance and speed: calculation of distance traveled, speed over ground (SOG).
- Position: Obtaining position using delays, distances, and GPS.
- Navigation Errors: Sources of error and methods to minimize them.
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety ā diagnosis ā intervention ā verification ā report) applicable to any system.
- Maritime Safety: SOLAS and ISPS regulations, International Conventions.
- Safety equipment on board: life jackets, life rafts, immersion suits, EPIRBs, SARTs.
- Firefighting: Types of fire, extinguishing agents, extinguishing equipment.
- First aid on board: Protocols, first aid kit, emergency treatment.
- Maritime Meteorology: Cloud formation, pressure systems, winds.
- Interpreting weather reports: Storm warnings, synoptic charts, buoys.
- Effects of weather on navigation: Visibility, sea state, currents.
- VHF Communications: Calling procedures, channels emergency, distress.
- GMDSS: Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, equipment and operation.
- IMO Standard Phraseology for maritime communications.
‘
Career opportunities
- Recreational Craft Skipper (PER): Boat rental and charter.
- Deckhand: Meeting navigation needs on professional vessels.
- Nautical Activities Instructor: Instructor at sailing schools and water sports centers.
- Coastal Radio Operator: Surveillance and communication at coastal stations.
- Marina Support Staff: Assisting vessels in port and managing moorings.
- Recreational Craft Inspector: Verifying compliance with safety regulations.
- Sales Representative in Nautical Companies: Sales and advice on nautical equipment and services.
- Tourism Business Manager nautical: Organization and promotion of tourist activities at sea.
“`
Admission requirements

Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.

Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.

Documentation:
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.

Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ā„ 24ā monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates

1. Online
application
(form + documents).

2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).

3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).

4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.

5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Navigation Fundamentals: Master nautical charts, instrument use, and essential positioning techniques.
- Voyage Planning: Learn to design safe and efficient routes, considering tides, currents, and weather conditions.
- Sea Safety: Acquire crucial knowledge of maritime regulations, emergency communications, and rescue procedures.
- Electronic Navigation: Become familiar with the use of GPS, plotters, and other digital navigation systems for accurate navigation.
- Navigation Practice: Apply theoretical knowledge in simulated and real-world practical exercises, strengthening your coastal navigation skills.
Testimonials
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid theoretical and practical knowledge in coastal navigation, including cartography, meteorology, maneuvers, and safety. The practical experience at sea was invaluable in reinforcing what I had learned and developing confidence in my ability to navigate safely. I now feel prepared to plan and execute coastal voyages responsibly.
The Diploma in Nautical Studies & Operations exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid theoretical and practical knowledge in navigation, maneuvers, maritime safety, and port operations management, allowing me to be promoted to Second Mate at my company.
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid theoretical and practical knowledge in coastal navigation, including cartography, meteorology, maneuvers, and safety. Now I feel confident and prepared to plan and execute voyages responsibly.
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I gained solid theoretical and practical knowledge in coastal navigation, including cartography, meteorology, maneuvers, and maritime safety. Now I feel confident and prepared to navigate responsibly.
Frequently asked questions
Coastal navigation.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Navigation near the coast.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3ā6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to nautical charting: history, types, projections
- Chart symbology: abbreviations, conventions, meaning of symbols
- Datum and positions: geodetic, cartographic, GPS, coordinate conversion
- Chart scales: interpretation, use, and limitations
- Soundings and depths: depth reduction, sounding datum, navigational safety
- Chart corrections: notices to mariners, nautical publications
- Tides: causes, types, prediction, use of tide tables
- Currents: causes, types, tidal currents, ocean currents
- Use of nautical publications: sailing directions, lighthouses, and fog signals Radio lists
Route planning: chart selection, distance and bearing determination
‘
Request information
Complete the Application Form.
Attach your CV/degree certificate (if you have it to hand).
Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you would like the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
An academic advisor will contact you within 24ā48 hours to guide you through the admission process, scholarships, and compatibility with your professional schedule.
Faculty
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor