Effective Communication on Ships Course
Why this course?
The Effective Communication on Ships
This course is designed to improve safety and operational efficiency on board through clear and precise communication. You will learn to avoid critical misunderstandings, optimize teamwork, and manage emergency situations effectively. This program addresses the specific characteristics of the maritime environment, with practical exercises and simulations that will allow you to apply communication techniques in real-life situations, from coordinating maneuvers to crisis management, in order to minimize risks and optimize collaboration among the crew.
Differential Advantages
- Practical Simulations: Realistic scenarios to improve communication in critical situations.
- Active Listening Techniques: Developing skills to understand and respond effectively.
- Intercultural Communication: Strategies to overcome language and cultural barriers.
- Conflict Management: Tools to resolve disagreements constructively.
- Nonverbal Communication: Interpreting and using body language to improve understanding.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Cursos
- Hours: 150 H
- Start date: 25-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Officers and seamen of all ranks looking to improve clarity and accuracy in their onboard communications.
- Supervisors and department heads wanting to optimize coordination and information flow between teams.
- Deck and engine room personnel needing to reduce misunderstandings and avoid errors resulting from poor communication.
- New recruits and cadets aiming to master standard communication protocols and quickly adapt to the maritime work environment.
- Maritime safety and HSEQ professionals interested in fostering a culture of proactive communication to prevent incidents and improve overall safety.
Flexibility for your routine
Ā Accessible content online 24/7, practical exercises focused on real-world scenarios, and a discussion forum to share experiences with industry colleagues.
Objectives and competencies
Establish and maintain active listening on board:
Implement standardized communication procedures (IMO phrases), prioritizing clarity and avoiding ambiguities, documenting all relevant communication in the bridge log.
To give clear and concise instructions in emergency situations:
“Prioritize the safety of the crew, passengers, and vessel, using standardized language (IMO) and relying on available resources (manuals, checklists).”
Use nonverbal communication to complement and reinforce key messages:
“Modulate tone, posture, and gestures to emphasize important points and build trust.”
Adapt communication to the cultural and linguistic context of the crew:
“Use clear and concise language, taking into account possible language barriers and adapting technical vocabulary.”
Resolving conflicts on board through assertive communication:
“Implement active listening and negotiation techniques, identifying the needs and interests of all parties involved to reach mutually beneficial solutions and maintain a collaborative work environment.”
To effectively coordinate ship maneuvers using standardized communication protocols:
Interpret orders and transmit them clearly, using the SMCP and adapting to different scenarios and roles on board.
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
- Legal and Regulatory Framework for Maritime Safety: SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW Conventions and their updates.
- International Maritime Organizations: IMO, Coast Guard, and their roles in safety.
- Maritime Communication: Radio communication procedures, GMDSS, VHF, MF/HF, and EPIRBs.
- SAR (Search and Rescue): Organization, procedures, equipment, and communications in SAR operations.
- Crisis Management on Board: Threat identification, risk assessment, and contingency plans.
- Fires on Board: Prevention, detection, extinguishing, equipment, and emergency procedures.
- Damage and Water Ingress: Control procedures for Damage, watertightness, and pumping.
- Abandon Ship: Evacuation procedures, lifeboats, life rafts, and survival equipment.
- Cargo Security: Stowage, securing, handling of dangerous goods, and spill prevention.
- Maritime Cybersecurity: Cyber āāthreats, vulnerabilities, and protective measures in communication and navigation systems.
‘
- Introduction to Maritime Radiocommunications: Purpose and Scope.
- Radio Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, DSC, NAVTEX, EPIRB, SART.
- Call Procedures: Urgency, Safety, Routine.
- International Phonetic Alphabet and Numbers: Correct Use and Practice.
- IMO Standard Phraseology (SMCP): Application in Communications.
- Maritime English: Technical Vocabulary, Essential Grammar, and Pronunciation.
- GMDSS Communications: Global Maritime Distress and Safety System.
- Emergency Management: Incident Assessment, Response, and Communication.
- Emergency Drills: Planning, execution, and evaluation.
- Legislation and Regulations: Compliance with international and national regulations.
‘
- Introduction to Maritime Communication: Importance, Evolution, and Challenges
- Standard Maritime Terminology: Glossary, Abbreviations, and Key Phrases
- Radiocommunications: Equipment, Frequencies, and Calling Procedures (VHF, MF/HF)
- Radio Regulations: ITU, IMO, National Authorities
- GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System): Components and Operation
- Distress Procedures: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE Priorities.
- Communication in emergency situations: fire, collision, man overboard, shipwreck.
- Maritime safety: position reports, notices to mariners, weather information.
- Communication protocols with port authorities, pilots, and tugboats.
- Effective use of Standard Maritime English: IMO Model Course 3.17.
‘
- Regulatory framework for maritime communications: IMO, ITU, SOLAS
- Radiocommunication equipment: VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat, GMDSS
- Calling and listening procedures: channels, frequencies, MMSI
- Radiotelephony: standard phraseology, phonetic alphabet, numbers
- Distress messages: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE; Structure and priorities
Safety communications: Notices to mariners, meteorology
GMDSS: Systems, alert procedures, search and rescue
EPIRB, SART, NAVTEX, DSC: Operation and basic maintenance
Internal communications: Public address systems, internal telephony, walkie-talkies
Cybersecurity in maritime communications: Threats and best practices
‘
- 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.
Plan de estudio - MĆ³dulos
- 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
- Legal and Regulatory Framework for Maritime Safety: SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW Conventions and their updates.
- International Maritime Organizations: IMO, Coast Guard, and their roles in safety.
- Maritime Communication: Radio communication procedures, GMDSS, VHF, MF/HF, and EPIRBs.
- SAR (Search and Rescue): Organization, procedures, equipment, and communications in SAR operations.
- Crisis Management on Board: Threat identification, risk assessment, and contingency plans.
- Fires on Board: Prevention, detection, extinguishing, equipment, and emergency procedures.
- Damage and Water Ingress: Control procedures for Damage, watertightness, and pumping.
- Abandon Ship: Evacuation procedures, lifeboats, life rafts, and survival equipment.
- Cargo Security: Stowage, securing, handling of dangerous goods, and spill prevention.
- Maritime Cybersecurity: Cyber āāthreats, vulnerabilities, and protective measures in communication and navigation systems.
‘
- Introduction to Maritime Radiocommunications: Purpose and Scope.
- Radio Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, DSC, NAVTEX, EPIRB, SART.
- Call Procedures: Urgency, Safety, Routine.
- International Phonetic Alphabet and Numbers: Correct Use and Practice.
- IMO Standard Phraseology (SMCP): Application in Communications.
- Maritime English: Technical Vocabulary, Essential Grammar, and Pronunciation.
- GMDSS Communications: Global Maritime Distress and Safety System.
- Emergency Management: Incident Assessment, Response, and Communication.
- Emergency Drills: Planning, execution, and evaluation.
- Legislation and Regulations: Compliance with international and national regulations.
‘
- Introduction to Maritime Communication: Importance, Evolution, and Challenges
- Standard Maritime Terminology: Glossary, Abbreviations, and Key Phrases
- Radiocommunications: Equipment, Frequencies, and Calling Procedures (VHF, MF/HF)
- Radio Regulations: ITU, IMO, National Authorities
- GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System): Components and Operation
- Distress Procedures: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE Priorities.
- Communication in emergency situations: fire, collision, man overboard, shipwreck.
- Maritime safety: position reports, notices to mariners, weather information.
- Communication protocols with port authorities, pilots, and tugboats.
- Effective use of Standard Maritime English: IMO Model Course 3.17.
‘
- Regulatory framework for maritime communications: IMO, ITU, SOLAS
- Radiocommunication equipment: VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat, GMDSS
- Calling and listening procedures: channels, frequencies, MMSI
- Radiotelephony: standard phraseology, phonetic alphabet, numbers
- Distress messages: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE; Structure and priorities
Safety communications: Notices to mariners, meteorology
GMDSS: Systems, alert procedures, search and rescue
EPIRB, SART, NAVTEX, DSC: Operation and basic maintenance
Internal communications: Public address systems, internal telephony, walkie-talkies
Cybersecurity in maritime communications: Threats and best practices
‘
- 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.
Effective Communication: Barriers, Models, and Communication Styles
Active Listening: Techniques, Empathy, and Message Comprehension
Nonverbal Communication: Body Language, Expressions, and Signals
Standard Communication Protocols: IMO, VHF, and GMDSS Phraseology
Information Management: Synthesis, Clarity, and Precision
Human Factors: Fatigue, Stress, Workload, and Performance
Situational Awareness: Perception, Understanding, and Projection
Decision-Making: Models, Cognitive Biases, and Risk Assessment
Teamwork: Coordination, Cooperation, and Situational Leadership
Intercultural Communication: Differences, adaptability and respect
‘
- Definition and scope of maritime communication protocols.
- International regulations: IMO, SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW.
- Communication systems: VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat, GMDSS.
- Call and response procedures in emergency communications (MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE).
- Information management: incident reporting, vessel tracking.
- Maritime security: threats, piracy, maritime terrorism.
- ISPS Code: ship and port security measures.
- Crisis management on board: emergency planning and response.
- SAR: Organization, procedures, and search and rescue equipment.
Communication with authorities: coordination in crisis situations.
‘
- Legal and Regulatory Framework: SOLAS, ISM, ISPS, STCW
- Internal Communication: Hierarchy, Channels, Active Listening Protocols
- External Communication: VHF, MF/HF, GMDSS, NAVTEX, Inmarsat
- Distress Call Procedures: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE
- Information Management: Confidentiality, Data Security, GDPR
- Security Threats: Hacking, Stowaways, Illicit Acts
- Access Control: Identification, Records, Restricted Areas
- Emergency Response Plan: Fires, Floods, Abandonment, Man Overboard
- First Aid: Basic Protocols, First Aid Kit, Communication with telemedicine
Emergency drills and exercises: planning, execution, and evaluation
‘
- Introduction to Communication: Models, Elements, and Barriers
- Assertive Communication: Principles, Techniques, and Benefits
- Active Listening: Levels, Skills, and Effective Feedback
- Empathy and Rapport: Creating Connection and Mutual Understanding
- Nonverbal Communication: Body Language, Expressions, and Tone of Voice
- Conflict Management: Types, Causes, and Stages
- Conflict Resolution Strategies: Negotiation, Mediation, and Arbitration
- Managing Emotions in Conflict Situations: Control and Appropriate Expression
- Intercultural Communication: Cultural Differences and Adaptation
- Onboard Application: Case Studies and Simulations
‘
Career opportunities
- Onboard Communications Officer: Responsible for internal and external communications, ensuring efficiency and clarity in information transmission.
- Maritime Public Relations Specialist: Manages the shipping company’s image and communicates with media and stakeholders.
- Maritime Emergency Coordinator: Responsible for communication in crisis situations, coordinating teams and transmitting vital information.
- Maritime Communication Trainer: Instructor in effective communication courses for onboard and shore-based personnel.
- Maritime Intercultural Communication Consultant: Expert in facilitating communication between crews of different nationalities.
- Maritime Technical Writer: Creates clear and concise manuals, procedures, and technical documentation.
- Maritime Interpreter: Facilitates communication in port and on board among people who speak different languages.
Port Authority Liaison Officer: responsible for communication and coordination with port authorities.
“`
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.
5. Induction
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
- Master Maritime Communication: Learn the key techniques for clear and effective communication in nautical environments.
- Protocols and Terminology: Familiarize yourself with standard protocols and specific vocabulary used on board and in communications with shore.
- Conflict Management: Acquire skills to resolve conflicts and improve collaboration among the crew.
- Emergency Communication: Prepare to communicate effectively in crisis situations, ensuring the safety of the vessel and crew.
- Intercultural Communication: Develop sensitivity and strategies to communicate with diverse crews and overcome cultural barriers.
Testimonials
I implemented the communication techniques I learned during the course, resulting in a 30% improvement in the efficiency of loading and unloading operations. Clear instructions and proactive communication minimized misunderstandings and delays, creating a safer and more productive work environment.
I applied the communication and emotional intelligence skills I learned in the Maritime Psychology and Leadership course to resolve an onboard conflict that was impacting productivity. By understanding individual perspectives and applying mediation techniques, we reached a mutually satisfactory agreement, significantly improving the work environment and team efficiency.
I implemented the communication strategies learned during training and successfully coordinated a complex docking maneuver in reduced visibility conditions, avoiding a possible accident and ensuring the safety of the crew and cargo.
“I implemented the communication techniques learned during training and successfully coordinated a complex docking maneuver in reduced visibility conditions, avoiding a potentially dangerous collision and receiving praise from the captain for my clarity and precision in the instructions.”
Frequently asked questions
To ensure the safety of life, the protection of the marine environment and the efficient operation of the vessel.
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.
Ensure the safety of the crew, the vessel, and the environment.
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 Communication: Models, Elements, and Barriers
- Assertive Communication: Principles, Techniques, and Benefits
- Active Listening: Levels, Skills, and Effective Feedback
- Empathy and Rapport: Creating Connection and Mutual Understanding
- Nonverbal Communication: Body Language, Expressions, and Tone of Voice
- Conflict Management: Types, Causes, and Stages
- Conflict Resolution Strategies: Negotiation, Mediation, and Arbitration
- Managing Emotions in Conflict Situations: Control and Appropriate Expression
- Intercultural Communication: Cultural Differences and Adaptation
- Onboard Application: Case Studies and Simulations
‘
Request information
- Complete the Application Form
- Attach your CV/Qualifications (if you have them to hand).
- Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you want the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
Teachers
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.