Master in Hospitality & Guest Experience for Luxury Yachts
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Hospitality & Guest Experience for Luxury Yachts
This program prepares you to exceed the expectations of the most discerning guests in the high-end nautical sector. Learn to create personalized and unforgettable experiences, managing every detail, from cutting-edge gastronomy to impeccable service and exclusive activities on board. Master the skills of interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and team management to successfully lead a hospitality team on a luxury yacht.
Differentiating Advantages
- Immersive Experience: simulation of real-life scenarios on board and professional internships on luxury yachts.
- Exclusive Networking: access to a network of contacts with industry leaders and job opportunities.
- Skills Development: training in protocol, etiquette, concierge services, and private event management.
- Personalized Approach: development of an individualized career plan and mentoring by experts.
- Prestigious Certification: international recognition and Validation of your skills in the luxury yacht market.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Luxury hospitality professionals looking to specialize in the nautical sector, offering unforgettable experiences aboard yachts.
- Yacht crew members (stewards, butlers, chefs) who wish to advance their careers, mastering personalized service and meeting the expectations of VIP clients.
- Graduates in Tourism, Hotel Management, or Marketing who aspire to an exciting and well-paid career in the world of high-end recreational yachting.
- Yacht owners and managers who wish to raise the standard of service onboard, building customer loyalty and maximizing the value of their investment.
- Yacht management companies and luxury travel agencies looking for Train your staff on the latest trends in yacht hospitality and guest experience.
Flexibility and specialization
Tailored to professionals with demanding schedules: flexible online format, real-world case studies, and networking with industry experts.
Objectives and skills
Monitor and optimize the guest experience:
Implement proactive feedback programs, analyzing data and trends to personalize services and anticipate needs, ensuring memorable stays and fostering loyalty.
Manage and coordinate high-end services:
“Anticipating the needs of the client and crew, optimizing resources and guaranteeing personalized and memorable experiences.”
Mastering the art of protocol and etiquette in exclusive environments:
“Project an impeccable personal and professional image adapted to demanding contexts, demonstrating assertive communication skills and public image management.”
Leading and motivating high-performing teams in nautical environments:
“To promote assertive communication, conflict management and effective delegation, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and shared responsibility.”
Anticipating and meeting the needs and expectations of the most demanding guests:
Personalize the customer experience, exceeding their expectations through proactive anticipation and meticulous attention to detail, demonstrating a deep understanding of their individual preferences and implicit needs.
Implement and maintain standards of operational and service excellence:
“Managing safety, efficiency, and sustainability by integrating procedures, continuous training, and audits for continuous improvement.”
Study plan – Modules
- Fundamentals of Luxury in Nautical Hospitality: Definition, Evolution, and Expectations of the Premium Guest Onboard
- Psychology of the Exclusive Yacht Guest: Profiles, Motivations, and Strategies to Anticipate Needs and Exceed Expectations
- Design and Implementation of Personalized Service Protocols: Individualized Attention, Onboard Etiquette, and Preference Management
- Sensory Experience and Atmosphere Onboard: Ambiance Techniques, Aromatherapy, Music, and Selective Lighting to Enhance Guest Comfort
- Advanced Management of Interpersonal Communication: Body Language, Active Listening, and Diplomatic Conflict Resolution in Closed Spaces
- Leadership and Crew Training: Methods for Developing High-Performing Teams with a Focus on Luxury Hospitality and Impeccable Service
- Technological Integration for Personalizing the Experience: Use of CRM, Preference Management Applications, and Intelligent Tracking Systems
- Onboard catering and tastings: creation of exclusive menus, wine pairings, and coordination with chefs for memorable gastronomic experiences
- Security and discretion protocols to guarantee maximum customer privacy without sacrificing service quality
- Continuous evaluation and feedback: methods to measure satisfaction, implement improvements, and ensure consistent excellence in onboard service
- Design and conceptualization of gourmet menus for luxury yachts: selection of premium ingredients, nutritional balance, and adaptation to personal preferences and special diets on board
- Implementation of cutting-edge culinary techniques: sous-vide, spherification, deconstruction, and artistic presentation for unforgettable gastronomic experiences
- Comprehensive management of food supply and storage at sea: quality control, cold storage, and critical cold chain to maintain freshness and food safety
- International health regulations applicable to maritime catering: compliance with HACCP standards, ISO 22000, and specific protocols for recreational vessels
- Exclusive mixology for nautical environments: creation of signature cocktails, use of local ingredients, and advanced molecular mixology techniques
- Integration of advanced technology in bar service: intelligent dispensing systems, portable refrigeration, and digital tools for inventory optimization
- Psychology of the luxury guest: anticipating needs, personalizing service, and generating multisensory experiences that foster loyalty
- Logistics and synchronization of onboard service: coordination between the kitchen, crew, and host team to guarantee precise timing and impeccable presentation
- Crisis and contingency management in food service: protocols for allergies, intolerances, unforeseen supply issues, and adaptations to adverse sea conditions
- Analysis of global trends in luxury catering and mixology: sustainability, locally sourced products, superfoods, and new techniques focused on innovation and differentiation
- Key concepts and current trends in gourmet catering for luxury yachts: definition, characteristics, and differentiation
- Selection and management of exclusive suppliers: quality criteria, product traceability, and strategic alliances
- Design of personalized and themed menus: integration of international culinary techniques, seasonality, and client preferences
- Advanced onboard logistics: storage, preservation, and safe handling of food in marine environments
- Innovation in culinary techniques applied to yacht catering: molecular gastronomy, sous-vide, and avant-garde plating
- Exclusive mixology: development of signature cocktails, use of premium ingredients, and preparation and presentation techniques
- Comprehensive management of the gastronomic experience: synchronization with itineraries, pairings, and personalized service
- Safety regulations and certifications Food safety standards applied to onboard catering (HACCP, ISO 22000, MSC)
Training and development of the catering and bar team: service protocols, customer service, and handling of special situations
Measuring and continuous improvement of customer satisfaction: feedback tools, trend analysis, and service adaptation
- Guest Journey Design: Detailed mapping from pre-arrival to post-stay, identifying key touchpoints and moments of truth in the guest experience.
- Welcome and Disembarkation Protocols: Customized procedures to ensure a flawless and efficient reception, with a focus on personalized attention and discretion.
- Onboard Governance Regulations: Organizational structure, roles, and responsibilities of the hospitality team to maximize operational efficiency and service quality.
- Implementation of International Premium Service Standards: Practical application of global best practices in luxury hospitality adapted to the nautical environment.
- Expectation Management: Advanced techniques for anticipating needs and exceeding expectations through analysis of guest profiles and preferences.
- Design of Gastronomic and Wine Interaction Protocols: Comprehensive management of exclusive culinary experiences, pairings, and bespoke presentations.
- Digitalization and Technology Tools Applied to guest experience: applications, nautical CRM, and real-time feedback systems to optimize communication and personalization.
Critical KPIs for premium service: definition, monitoring, and analysis of key indicators such as Net Promoter Score (NPS), response time, satisfaction index, and loyalty.
Proactive incident management and conflict resolution with rapid action protocols, guaranteeing discretion and maintaining a seamless experience.
Training and leadership in nautical hospitality: continuous training and team empowerment to maintain standards of excellence in guest service.
Internal audits and competitive benchmarking: methodologies to evaluate the performance of the experience protocol and establish continuous improvement plans aligned with high-end yacht trends.
Legal and ethical aspects of onboard hospitality: regulatory compliance, data privacy, and cultural respect in providing service to international clients.
Design of exclusive and personalized experiences: integration of activities High-end recreational, wellbeing, and entertainment options tailored to the client’s profile.
The art of detail: meticulous management of amenities, décor, and sensory ambiance to create lasting and emotional memories with every visit.
Loyalty strategies and personalized programs for repeat guests: developing long-term relationships based on trust and sustained excellence.
- Fundamentals of Luxury Yacht Hospitality: Definition, International Standards, and Personalized Experience
- Design and Implementation of Comprehensive Operational Processes for Efficient Onboard Service Management
- Advanced Supply and Logistics Management: Supply Chains, Optimized Warehousing, and Inventory Control Specific to High-Luxury Yachts
- Optimizing the Performance of Multifunctional Teams: Interdisciplinary Coordination Between Kitchen, Housekeeping, Maintenance, and Guest Service Crew
- Situational Leadership and Development of Emotional Intelligence Skills for Managing Diverse and Multicultural Teams onboard
- Essential Regulations, Protocols, and Certifications for Luxury Yacht Operations: ISO, ISM, Industry Benchmarking, and Quality Audits
- Development and Monitoring of Contingency Plans and Crisis Protocols to Ensure Operational Continuity and Guest Safety
- Implementation of Technologies Applied to Hospitality Management: CRM Systems, Automation
- Services and real-time monitoring
- Internal and external communication standards: advanced briefing techniques, feedback management, and conflict resolution focused on guest experience excellence
- Critical metrics and KPIs for operational quality control and continuous evaluation of team performance against customer satisfaction
- Innovative strategies for motivating and retaining talent in demanding and exclusive nautical environments
- Proactive service culture: anticipating needs, extreme personalization, and emotional guest management to generate memorability and loyalty
- Integrating sustainability into operations: eco-efficient practices, impact reduction, and responsible communication with guests
- Case studies and benchmarking analysis in luxury yacht hospitality management: lessons learned and direct application in daily operations
- Fundamentals of Personalization in Luxury Yacht Hospitality: Profile Analysis and Advanced Customer Segmentation
- Emotional Design of Experiences: Applying Neuroscience and Sensory Psychology to Create Unique Onboard Environments
- Innovation in Gourmet Services: High-End Culinary Trends, Molecular Techniques, and Exclusive Pairings
- Implementation of Disruptive Technologies in Food Service: 3D Food Printing, Augmented Reality for Menus, and Intelligent Automation
- Comprehensive Management of Exclusive Events onboard: Planning, Execution, and Evaluation of Personalized Experiences for VIP Clients
- Strategic Leadership in Hospitality Operations: Advanced Methodologies for Multidisciplinary Teams in Nautical Environments
- Optimizing Unique Operational Processes for High-End Yachts: Logistics, Time Management, and Quality Control in Luxury Services
- Protocols for
- International etiquette and service: Specific standards for high society and diverse cultures in the luxury yachting industry
- Team training and motivation: Advanced techniques to foster excellence and proactivity in the hospitality crew
- Customer experience audits and real-time feedback tools for continuous improvement of onboard service
- Advanced Conceptualization of Experiential Design: Tools and methodologies for creating unique and memorable experiences on luxury yachts, applying principles of guest psychology and neuromarketing.
- Segmentation and Profiling of High-End Clients: Detailed analysis of preferences, expectations, behaviors, and trends in exclusive guests to fully personalize the onboard experience.
- Integration of Cutting-Edge Technology in Experience Management: Exclusive CRM systems, artificial intelligence for anticipating needs, and augmented reality for designing and simulating personalized environments.
- Design and Management of Adaptive Experiential Itineraries: Dynamic planning that incorporates meteorological, operational, and preferential variables to optimize every moment of the journey.
- Luxury Hospitality Protocols onboard: Team training in etiquette, assertive communication, multilingual service, and proactive response to complex situations, guaranteeing excellence in the service.
- Space optimization and sensory ambiance: application of ephemeral architecture, intelligent lighting, aromatherapy, and music selection to create exclusive atmospheres consistent with the client’s profile.
- Comprehensive supplier and partner management: technical and strategic criteria for selecting and coordinating external services that provide added value and maintain premium standards.
- Implementation of performance indicators and advanced continuous feedback techniques: qualitative and quantitative analysis for the constant improvement of the customer experience and loyalty.
- Detailed case studies: review of successful models on luxury yachts, analysis of critical errors in experiential management, and practical application of innovative solutions.
- Ethics and sustainability in luxury nautical hospitality: policies and best practices for integrating environmental and social responsibility without compromising the exclusivity and quality of service.
- Fundamentals of Luxury Hospitality in Maritime Environments: Differentiating Characteristics and Expectations of VIP Clients on High-End Yachts
- Designing and Personalizing the Guest Experience: Analyzing Profiles, Anticipating Needs, and Creating Exclusive Itineraries
- Onboard Service Protocols: International Standards, Operational Processes, and Attention to Detail in Constant and Discreet Service
- Advanced Communication with Guests: Active Listening Techniques, Handling Sensitive Situations, and Proactive Conflict Resolution
- Comprehensive Crew Management Focused on Guest Experience Excellence: Roles, Competencies, Continuous Training, and Situational Leadership
- Implementation of Intelligent Systems for Real-Time Monitoring and Feedback of Onboard Service, Including Digital Tools and Specialized CRMs
- Quality Control and Internal Audits: Methodologies for Objective Evaluation, Key Metrics, and Continuous Improvement Plans
- Protocol and Etiquette for Exclusive Onboard Events: Organizing Experiences Gastronomic, cultural, and entertainment experiences tailored to high-seas sailing.
Advanced emergency management from the guest’s perspective: safety, communication, and personalized care during emergencies.
Sustainability and social responsibility in luxury service: integrating eco-friendly practices and generating value for conscious guests.
- Fundamentals of luxury hospitality applied to premium yachts: international standards and expectations of ultra-exclusive clients
- Design and development of personalized strategies for onboard experiences: guest profile analysis and advanced segmentation
- Implementation of innovative technologies for comprehensive experience management: specialized CRM systems and artificial intelligence tools
- Advanced customer service protocols: anticipating needs, dynamic personalization, and real-time request management
- Management of high-end services: exclusive gastronomy, wine pairings, wellness, and entertainment adapted to nautical environments
- Multidisciplinary coordination in onboard teams: leadership, effective communication, and handling critical situations
- Integration of sustainability and social responsibility into the guest experience without compromising luxury and exclusivity
- Crisis management and emergency protocols with a focus on preserving the user experience
- Evaluation and measurement of the impact of implemented strategies through specific KPIs and qualitative and quantitative feedback analysis
- Case studies and benchmarking: detailed analysis of best practices in luxury yacht hospitality and emerging trends in the sector
- Conceptual framework of the Guest Journey on luxury yachts: definition, relevance, and key components for a distinctive experience.
- Advanced experiential design methodologies: Design Thinking, Service Blueprint, and Customer Touchpoint Mapping applied to nautical hospitality.
- Analysis of exclusive guest profiles: psychographic and behavioral segmentation to anticipate needs and personalize services.
- Implementation of cutting-edge technologies in Guest Journey management: specialized CRM, artificial intelligence, and virtual assistants integrated into nautical environments.
- Design of protocols for excellence in personalized service: from arrival to departure, including expectation management and proactive incident resolution.
- Training and leadership strategies for yacht hospitality teams: development of soft and hard skills to maintain superior standards.
- Optimization of the onboard sensory experience: ambiance, gastronomy, entertainment, and wellness Tailored to the demands of the ultra-exclusive client.
Sustainable and ethical management of luxury hospitality: responsible practices that enhance reputation and add value to the guest experience.
Guest Experience evaluation and measurement: key performance indicators (KPIs), 360° feedback, and big data analysis for continuous improvement.
Final Project: comprehensive development of an innovative Guest Journey design and excellence strategies, with practical application in a real-world case study of an exclusive yacht.
Career prospects
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- Guest Experience Manager on Luxury Yachts: Design and management of personalized guest experiences, exceeding expectations and building customer loyalty.
- Luxury Concierge on Board: Comprehensive attention to guest needs, from exclusive reservations to the organization of private events.
- Provisioning and Wine Cellar Manager: Selection of gourmet products and high-end wines, stock management, and quality control.
- Onboard Events and Activities Coordinator: Planning and execution of themed events, exclusive excursions, and entertainment activities.
- Protocol and Etiquette Specialist: Ensuring compliance with luxury standards, proper protocol, and etiquette in every interaction.
- Yacht Hospitality Consultant: Advising shipowners and management companies on improving Customer experience and service optimization.
- Hospitality and Customer Service Trainer in the nautical sector: Transmitting knowledge and skills to future professionals, raising industry standards.
- Marketing and Public Relations Manager for luxury yachts: Promoting exclusive services, managing online reputation, and developing communication strategies.
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Entry requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Bachelor’s degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering or a related qualification; or proven professional experience on the bridge/in operations.
Language proficiency:
Functional Maritime English (SMCP) recommended for simulations and technical materials.
Documentation:
Updated CV, copy of qualification or seaman’s book, national ID/passport, motivation letter.
Technical requirements (for online):
Device with camera/microphone, stable internet connection, monitor ≥ 24” recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admissions process and dates
Online
application
(form + documents).
Academic review and interview
Admissions decision
Admissions decision
(+ scholarship offer if applicable).
Place reservation
(deposit) and enrolment.
Induction
(access to the virtual campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and financial support
- Master the Luxury Experience: Learn to create unforgettable experiences for discerning guests on luxury yachts.
- High-Level Hospitality Management: Acquire skills in protocol, personalized service, and expectation management.
- Trends and Innovation: Discover the latest trends in hospitality and how to apply them in the yachting sector.
- Exclusive Networking: Connect with leading professionals and companies in the luxury nautical sector.
- Career Opportunities: Boost your career in luxury yacht management, high-end hospitality, and exclusive tourism.
Testimonials
This master’s program provided me with the tools and network necessary to take a significant leap forward in my career. I applied the knowledge I gained in crew management, high-level logistics, and personalized customer service to my role as Chief Stewardess, creating an exceptional experience for owners and guests and optimizing the yacht’s operational efficiency. The direct result was a significant increase in bookings and a performance bonus, demonstrating the true value of this specialized training.
My experience in the Master’s Program in Gastronomy & Hospitality at Sea exceeded all my expectations. The internship aboard a luxury cruise ship allowed me to apply the knowledge I had acquired in a real and demanding environment, developing crucial skills in team management, cost control, and international customer service. Thanks to this training, I secured a position as head chef at a prestigious Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in seafood.
After completing the Master’s in Hospitality & Guest Experience for Luxury Yachts, I secured a position as Chief Stewardess on a 70-meter superyacht. I applied the skills I had learned in crew management, tailor-made itinerary planning, and attention to detail, exceeding the owner’s expectations and achieving an exceptional season with excellent guest reviews and a lucrative gratuity at the end of the charter.
After completing the Master’s in Hospitality & Guest Experience for Luxury Yachts, I secured a position as Chief Stewardess on a 70-meter superyacht. I applied the skills I acquired in the program, from crew management and provisioning to organizing onboard events and providing personalized service to VIP clients, achieving a flawless inaugural season with exceptional feedback from both the owner and guests. The training provided me with the tools and confidence necessary to excel in this demanding industry.
Frequently asked questions
Luxury yacht industry.
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.
To the hospitality sector and the customer experience on luxury yachts.
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.
- Conceptual framework of the Guest Journey on luxury yachts: definition, relevance, and key components for a distinctive experience.
- Advanced experiential design methodologies: Design Thinking, Service Blueprint, and Customer Touchpoint Mapping applied to nautical hospitality.
- Analysis of exclusive guest profiles: psychographic and behavioral segmentation to anticipate needs and personalize services.
- Implementation of cutting-edge technologies in Guest Journey management: specialized CRM, artificial intelligence, and virtual assistants integrated into nautical environments.
- Design of protocols for excellence in personalized service: from arrival to departure, including expectation management and proactive incident resolution.
- Training and leadership strategies for yacht hospitality teams: development of soft and hard skills to maintain superior standards.
- Optimization of the onboard sensory experience: ambiance, gastronomy, entertainment, and wellness Tailored to the demands of the ultra-exclusive client.
Sustainable and ethical management of luxury hospitality: responsible practices that enhance reputation and add value to the guest experience.
Guest Experience evaluation and measurement: key performance indicators (KPIs), 360° feedback, and big data analysis for continuous improvement.
Final Project: comprehensive development of an innovative Guest Journey design and excellence strategies, with practical application in a real-world case study of an exclusive yacht.
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.