Diploma in Maritime Crisis Communication
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Maritime Crisis Communication
This program prepares you to effectively manage communication in critical situations affecting the maritime sector. You will learn to develop proactive and reactive communication strategies, protecting your organization’s reputation and minimizing the impact of the crisis. This program provides you with the necessary tools to manage communication with the media, stakeholders, and the general public, ensuring a rapid, transparent, and effective response. You will master information management and real-time communication, minimizing risks and maintaining trust in your brand.
Differential Advantages
- Crisis Simulations: practical exercises to apply learned strategies in real-world scenarios.
- Maritime Communication Experts: instructors with extensive experience in crisis management within the sector.
- Monitoring and Analysis Tools: use of specialized software for online reputation tracking.
- Development of Crisis Communication Plans: creation of customized plans for your organization.
- Professional Networking: connection with other professionals in the maritime and communications sectors.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 29-09-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Communication and public relations managers in shipping companies, ports, and terminals, seeking to strengthen their skills in managing reputation in crisis situations.
- Directors of maritime operations and safety who need to understand effective communication strategies to mitigate risks and damages during incidents.
- Journalists and media professionals specializing in the maritime sector, who need to deepen their understanding of the complexity of maritime crises and their responsible coverage.
- Lawyers and consultants advising maritime companies on liability and risk management issues, interested in understanding the key role of communication in crisis resolution.
- Students and recent graduates in communication, journalism, public relations, or related fields, seeking Specialize in a strategic and high-impact sector.
Flexibility and applicability
Designed for professionals with demanding schedules: 24/7 accessible online content, relevant case studies, and ready-to-implement tools for real-world situations.
Objectives and competencies

Effectively managing communication in maritime incidents:
“Use standardized terminology (IMO), prioritizing clarity and conciseness in communications with other vessels, rescue coordination centres (RCCs) and port authorities.”

Mitigating reputational damage in crisis situations:
Implement a proactive and transparent crisis communication plan, involving key stakeholders and adapting the message to each channel to minimize negative amplification.

Coordinate information between stakeholders during maritime emergencies:
Establish a clear and effective communication channel, using standardized terminology (SMCP), to ensure mutual understanding and coordinated decision-making among all stakeholders (maritime authorities, SAR, tugboats, nearby vessels, etc.).

Mastering preventive and reactive communication strategies:
“Implement proactive communication plans and crisis response protocols, adapting the message to the audience and using effective communication tools.”

Lead proactive communication with the media and public opinion:
“Developing key messages tailored to each audience, anticipating potential crises, and managing online and offline reputation.”

Apply standardized communication protocols in maritime crises:
Use the SMDSM (GMDSS) to alert, coordinate search and rescue (SAR), and disseminate maritime safety information (MSI), prioritizing the immediacy and accuracy of the information transmitted.
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 Communication in the Maritime Environment: Challenges and Opportunities
- Internal Communication: Flows, Protocols, and Tools Onboard and Ashore
- External Communication: Relations with Media, Stakeholders, and the Maritime Community
- Crisis Management: Communication Plans, Spokespeople, and Channels
- Online Reputation: Monitoring, Comment Management, and Digital Presence
- Public Relations: Events, Sponsorships, and Social Impact Communication
- Intercultural Communication: Awareness, Adaptation, and Best Practices
- Risk Communication: Transparency, Clarity, and Trust
- Measurement and Evaluation: Reputation KPIs and Impact Analysis
- Trends in communication: new technologies and emerging platforms
‘
- Introduction to Maritime Crisis Communication: Particularities and Challenges
- Legal and Ethical Framework for Communication in Maritime Emergencies
- Identification and Analysis of Risks in the Maritime Sector: Types of Crises
- Developing a Crisis Communication Plan: Key Elements and Adaptation to the Maritime Environment
- Identifying and Segmenting Stakeholders: Media, Authorities, General Public, etc.
- Effective Communication Techniques in High-Pressure Situations: Clarity, Precision, and Empathy
- The Role of the Spokesperson: Selection, Training, and Public Image Management
- Monitoring Online and Offline Reputation: Tools and Active Listening Strategies
- Managing Internal Communication During a Crisis: Transparency, Motivation, and Containment
- Post-Crisis Evaluation and Analysis: Lessons Learned and Improvement continued.
‘
- Introduction to Public Relations: history, evolution, and current trends.
- Communication Theory: models, barriers, and effective communication in PR.
- Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility: codes of conduct, transparency, and sustainability.
- Environmental Analysis: stakeholders, public opinion, media.
- Corporate Image and Reputation Management: creation, maintenance, and recovery.
- Crisis Communication: contingency plans, spokespeople, information management.
- Research in PR: quantitative and qualitative methods, data analysis.
- Strategic PR Planning: SMART goals, strategies, tactics, and evaluation.
Media Relations: press releases, conferences, interviews, and media training.
Measuring and Evaluating Results: KPIs, ROI, and analysis of the impact of PR activities.
‘
- Introduction to Strategic Communication: Models and Approaches.
- Stakeholder Identification and Analysis: Mapping and Prioritization.
- Defining Key Messages: Storytelling and Brand Narrative.
- Selection and Training of Spokespeople: Effective Communication Skills.
- Online Reputation Management: Monitoring and Response.
- Communication in Crisis Situations: Protocols and Information Management.
- Measuring and Evaluating Communication Effectiveness.
- Media Relations: Contact Strategies and Interview Management.
- Internal Communication: Employee Alignment and Engagement..
- Aspects Legal and ethical aspects of communication.
‘
- 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.
- Introduction to Maritime Communication: Particularities and Challenges
- Legal and Regulatory Framework: Applicable International Conventions and National Regulations
- Standard Maritime Terminology: IMO Standardized Maritime Phrases (SMCP)
- Communication Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, Satellite (Inmarsat, Iridium), GMDSS
- Communication Procedures: Distress, Urgency, and Safety Calls
- Communication with Authorities: Coast Guard, Maritime Rescue, Port Authorities
- Communication with Other Vessels: Information Exchange and Coordination
- Information Management: Collection, Verification, Analysis, and Dissemination.
- Intercultural Communication: Cultural and linguistic sensitivity in maritime environments.
- Communication Drills: Practice and evaluation of communication procedures in emergencies.
‘
Career opportunities
- Communications Manager for Shipping Companies and Maritime Businesses: reputation management, crisis plan development, official spokesperson.
- Crisis Communications Consultant for the Maritime Sector: advising companies, designing strategies, spokesperson training.
- Public Relations Officer for Ports and Maritime Authorities: managing communication with media, stakeholders, and local communities in emergency situations.
- Communications Specialist for International Maritime Organizations: report writing, managing communication in global crisis situations.
- Journalist specializing in maritime news and crisis management: incident coverage, crisis communication analysis, research.
- Internal Communications Manager for Companies in the Maritime Sector: managing information for employees in crisis situations, communicating changes and measures. Security.
- Risk and Vulnerability Analyst in Maritime Crisis Communication: risk identification, evaluation of the effectiveness of communication plans, continuous improvement.
- Trainer in Maritime Crisis Communication: design and delivery of courses and workshops for professionals in the sector.
“`
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
- Master the strategies: Anticipate, manage, and overcome any crisis that affects your maritime organization’s reputation.
- Effective communication: Learn to communicate key messages to stakeholders, the media, and the general public under pressure.
- Tools and protocols: Implement crisis plans, use monitoring tools, and follow international protocols.
- Simulations and real-world case studies: Participate in practical simulations and analyze success and failure cases in the maritime industry.
- Industry experts: Learn from professionals with extensive experience in crisis communication in the maritime sector.
Testimonials
The Diploma in Maritime Crisis Communication provided me with the necessary tools and strategies to effectively manage a simulated oil spill crisis. I successfully coordinated internal and external communication, minimizing reputational damage and keeping key stakeholders informed throughout the process. The practical application of the acquired knowledge, including drafting press releases and interacting with the media, gave me the confidence to handle high-pressure situations with professionalism and assertiveness.
The Diploma in Communication & International Relations provided me with the theoretical and practical tools to understand today’s complex global landscape. Through the analysis of real-world cases and interaction with experts, I was able to strengthen my strategic communication and diplomacy skills, enabling me to successfully lead the negotiation of a crucial international agreement for my organization. This achievement would not have been possible without the solid foundation I received in the program.
This diploma program provided me with the tools and precise knowledge to effectively manage communication during a simulated maritime crisis. I was able to coordinate the media response, minimize reputational damage, and convey clear and concise information to stakeholders, demonstrating a high level of professionalism and efficiency in a high-pressure environment.
This diploma program provided me with the tools and strategic knowledge to effectively manage communication during a simulated maritime incident. I successfully led the communication response, minimizing reputational damage and keeping all key stakeholders informed in a timely and transparent manner.
Frequently asked questions
Maritime crises, including shipping accidents, oil spills, piracy, maritime terrorism, natural disasters at sea, and reputational crises affecting the maritime sector.
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.
It covers both aspects, both communication during the emergency and long-term reputation management after a maritime incident.
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.
- Strategic Communication: objectives, key messages, audience
- Identifying Spokespeople: roles, responsibilities, selection
- Spokesperson Training: communication techniques, handling difficult questions
- Message Crafting: clarity, conciseness, impact
- Crisis Management: risk identification, contingency plans, communication in emergency situations
- Media Relations: types of media, contact strategies, drafting press releases
- Preparing for Interviews: research, key messages, mock interviews
- Handling Interviews: response techniques, controlling the conversation, avoiding common mistakes
- Media Monitoring: tracking coverage, analyzing the Reputation, response management
- Communication evaluation: success metrics, results analysis, continuous improvement
‘
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