Diploma in Secure Communications on Vessels
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Secure Communications on Vessels
This program offers comprehensive training to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of maritime communications. Learn to protect critical information and mitigate the risks associated with cyber threats in the naval environment. This program will provide you with the necessary skills to implement and manage robust and secure communication systems, complying with international regulations and industry best practices.
Differential Advantages
- Maritime Cybersecurity: Identification and management of vulnerabilities in onboard communication systems.
- Secure Communication Protocols: Implementation of encryption and authentication in satellite and radio communications.
- Regulations and Compliance: In-depth knowledge of IMO regulations and other regulations relevant to communications security.
- Incident Management: Development of security incident response and disaster recovery plans.
- Practical Exercises and Case Studies: Practical application of acquired knowledge through simulations and analysis of real-world cases.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 13-06-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Bridge officers, radio operators, and maritime security personnel seeking to master the most advanced communication protocols and ensure confidentiality in challenging environments.
- Naval communications and electronics engineers who need to update on the latest encryption technologies, digital radio systems, and onboard cybersecurity.
- Shipping companies and shipowners interested in protecting their critical communications, complying with international regulations, and minimizing the risk of interception or sabotage.
- Marine communication equipment and service providers who want to deepen their knowledge of security solutions, understand their customers’ needs, and offer cutting-edge products.
- IT and cybersecurity professionals seeking to expand their knowledge into the maritime field, understand specific vulnerabilities and apply effective protection strategies.
Study Flexibility
Adapted to working professionals: online format with recorded live classes, 24/7 access to materials and consultation forums with industry experts.
Objectives and competencies
Implement robust communication protocols:
“Select the appropriate protocol (AIS, VHF, DSC, satellite) according to the situation and distance, prioritizing clarity and conciseness in the information transmitted.”
Effectively manage satellite communication systems:
“Ensure the availability and correct configuration of equipment, diagnose and resolve common faults, and apply standard security and communication protocols.”
Operate and maintain maritime communication equipment optimally:
Perform basic preventive and corrective maintenance, diagnosing common faults and using the appropriate technical documentation.
Applying cybersecurity techniques to maritime communications:
Implement network segmentation and robust encryption in satellite and VHF communications, actively managing vulnerabilities and applying hardening to electronic navigation systems (ECDIS, radar).
Solving communication problems in emergency situations:
“Establish clear and concise communication using standard phraseology (IMO), prioritizing essential information (location, nature of the emergency, assistance required) and adapting the communication to the capabilities of the interlocutor (vessels, coordination centers, authorities).”
Comply with current regulations on maritime communications:
Use GMDSS equipment, radio beacons and SART efficiently to ensure safety and request assistance in emergency situations, complying with international and national protocols.
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
- Fundamentals of Maritime Communications: History, Evolution, and Regulations (ITU, IMO).
- Radiocommunication Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat, GMDSS.
- GMDSS: System, Components, Distress and Safety Procedures.
- VHF: Channels, Calling Procedures, Safety Messages, DSC.
- MF/HF: Operation, Calling Procedures, Radiotelephony, and Telegraphy.
- Inmarsat: Terminal Types, Services, Calling and Messaging Procedures.
- NAVTEX and SafetyNET: Receiving Notices to Mariners and Weather Forecasts.
- EPIRB, SART, and AIS-SART: Operation, Testing, Maintenance, and Deployment.
- Emergency Communication Procedures: Relief, Urgency, and Safety.
- Cybersecurity in Maritime Communications: Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Best Practices.
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- Introduction to Maritime Cybersecurity: Threats and Vulnerabilities
- Maritime Communication Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat, Iridium, VSAT
- Electronic Navigation Systems: ECDIS, Radar, AIS, GNSS
- Onboard Networks: Segmentation, Access Control, and Monitoring
- Data Protection: Backups, Encryption, and Password Management
- Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems: Configuration and Management
- Security Protocols: HTTPS, SSH, TLS/SSL, VPN
- Cybersecurity Incident Management: Detection, Response, and Recovery
- Cybersecurity awareness and training for the crew
- Maritime cybersecurity regulations and standards: IMO, BIMCO, NIST
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- Introduction to GMDSS: Purpose, architecture, and services.
- GMDSS Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, INMARSAT, NAVTEX, EPIRB, SART.
- Distress Procedures: Alerting, acknowledging, and relaying.
- Routine and Safety Calls: Procedures and priorities.
- Operating GMDSS Equipment: Practice on simulators and real equipment.
- Battery Maintenance: Types, charging, discharging, and replacement.
- International Regulations: ITU, IMO, SOLAS Chapter IV.
- Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs): Programming, activation, and testing.
- Search and Rescue Transponder (SART): Operation and testing.
- Maritime Safety: Safety messages, notices to mariners.
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- Introduction to Maritime Digital Security: Threats and Vulnerabilities
- Maritime Communication Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, Satellite (Inmarsat, Iridium)
- Automatic Identification Systems (AIS): Classes, Data, Security
- Maritime Safety Alert Systems: GMDSS, EPIRB, SART
- Onboard Networks: Architecture, Segmentation, Perimeter Security
- Firewalls, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS/IPS) and Intrusion Detection Systems
- Antivirus and Anti-malware: Selection, Installation, and Maintenance
- Password Management and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Backup and Recovery of Data (backup and restore)
- Maritime Cybersecurity Incident Response Plans
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- 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 → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Maritime Radiocommunications: History, Evolution, and Legal Framework
- Radio Frequency Principles: Waves, Modulation, Propagation, and Antennas
- VHF Radiocommunication Equipment: Operation, Channels, Calling and Listening Procedures
- MF/HF Radiocommunication Equipment: Operation, Bands, Calling and Listening Procedures
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS): Components, Obligations, and Procedures
- Emergency Radio Beacons (EPIRBs): Types, Activation, Maintenance, and Regulations
- Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs): Operation and Emergency Use
- NAVTEX: Receiving Notices to Mariners, Configuration, and Use
- Communications via Satellite: Inmarsat, Iridium, VSAT and their maritime applications
Distress, emergency and safety procedures: distress calls (MAYDAY), urgency (PAN PAN) and safety (SECURITE)
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Career opportunities
- Onboard Communications Officer: Management and maintenance of communications equipment, ensuring operability in critical situations.
- Maritime Security Specialist: Implementation and supervision of communications security protocols, including cybersecurity.
- Satellite Communications Technician: Installation, configuration, and maintenance of onboard satellite communication systems.
- Coastal Station Radio Operator: Monitoring of emergency communications and assistance to vessels.
- Maritime Communications Consultant: Advising shipowners and shipping companies on secure and efficient communication solutions.
- Maritime Communications Inspector: Verification of compliance with international regulations regarding onboard communications.
- Secure Communications Instructor: Training of maritime personnel in The use of communication equipment and protocols.
- Maritime Communications Software Developer: Creation and improvement of applications for onboard communications management.
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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, ≥ 24” 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
- Maritime Cybersecurity: Master the latest techniques to protect your vessel’s communications against digital threats.
- Secure Protocols: Learn to implement and manage robust, encrypted communication protocols.
- Advanced Equipment: Become familiar with the use of cutting-edge tools and technologies to guarantee data confidentiality and integrity.
- Current Legislation: Understand international and national regulations regarding maritime communications security.
- Incident Management: Develop skills to respond effectively to security incidents and minimize risks.
Testimonials
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I not only strengthened my theoretical knowledge of GMDSS systems and satellite communications, but the simulator training gave me the confidence to handle emergency situations effectively. Now I feel much better prepared to face any eventuality at sea.
“This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I gained solid knowledge in cybersecurity, from risk management to forensic analysis, and a deep understanding of navigation systems, including GPS, GNSS, and their vulnerabilities. The practical exercises were key to reinforcing my learning, and I feel prepared to face the challenges of this field.”
This diploma program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to effectively manage communications in critical maritime situations. I applied what I learned during a real rescue, coordinating communications between the vessel in distress, the coast guard, and other ships in the area. Thanks to the clarity and precision of my transmissions, the rescue was carried out quickly and safely, saving the lives of the crew.
This diploma program provided me with the necessary tools and knowledge to communicate effectively in maritime situations, including the operation of VHF equipment, the correct use of the GMDSS, and the application of emergency procedures. Thanks to the practical and theoretical training I received, I increased my confidence and competence in maritime communications, which allowed me to obtain my operator’s license and has given me greater confidence in my work on board.
Frequently asked questions
Maritime communications, including radiocommunications (VHF, MF/HF, satellite), Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems (GMDSS), and potentially modern digital communications.
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.
Secure communications on vessels.
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 (3–6 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 GMDSS: components, frequencies, maritime areas
- Emergency Radio Beacons (EPIRBs): types, activation, maintenance
- Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs): operation, testing
- VHF Radiotelephony: procedures, distress calls, safety and routine
- MF/HF Radiotelephony: procedures, Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
- INMARSAT: systems, communication and safety services
- NAVTEX: receiving Notices to Mariners and weather forecasts
- Batteries: types, maintenance, charging and discharging procedures
- Legislation and Documentation: licenses, registrations, inspections
- Procedures Relief, emergency, and security: communications and actions
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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 24–48 hours to guide you through the admission process, scholarships, and compatibility with your professional schedule.
Faculty
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
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.