Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Food in Marine Expeditions
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s in Nutrition and Food for Marine Expeditions
This program prepares you to be an expert in planning and managing food in challenging maritime environments. You will learn to optimize nutrition to maximize performance and health at sea, considering factors such as expedition duration, weather, and the specific needs of the crew. This program provides you with the tools and knowledge to design balanced menus, manage limited resources, and prevent nutritional deficiencies in extreme conditions.
Differentiating Advantages
- Specific Nutrition for Marine Environments: Adaptation to unique climatic and logistical conditions.
- Optimized Menu Planning: Designing balanced diets for performance and well-being.
- Resource Management and Food Preservation: Techniques to maximize shelf life and minimize waste.
- Prevention and Treatment of Nutritional Deficiencies: Addressing common health problems on expeditions.
- Food Safety Protocols at Sea: Ensuring hygiene and preventing foodborne illnesses food.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Nutritionists and dietitians who wish to specialize in the specific nutritional needs of crews and explorers in maritime environments.
- Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses) working on cargo ships, cruise ships, or scientific expeditions and seeking to optimize onboard health through nutrition.
- Head chefs and catering staff on vessels who want to innovate with balanced and safe menus for life at sea.
- Organizers of maritime expeditions and tourism companies seeking to ensure the health and performance of their participants through proper nutrition.
- Graduates in Food Science, Biology, or related fields aspiring to a A unique career path in nutrition applied to extreme marine environments.
Flexible learning options
Ideal for professionals with demanding schedules: online format with recorded classes, active discussion forums, and personalized tutoring.
Objectives and skills
Design optimized menus to maintain physical and cognitive performance in extreme marine conditions.
“Select foods rich in essential nutrients, considering the mission duration, storage space, and ease of preparation to minimize stress and maximize energy efficiency.”
To effectively manage the food resources available on board, minimizing waste and maximizing food preservation:
“Implement a FIFO (First In, First Out) system, control storage temperatures, and plan menus optimizing the use of ingredients.”
Evaluate and adapt individual nutritional needs based on each crew member's profile and the specific demands of the expedition.
“Taking into account medical history, allergies, intolerances, food preferences, and adjusting the nutritional plan according to the physical activity and environmental conditions of the expedition.”
Implement customized hydration strategies to prevent dehydration and optimize performance in variable marine environments:
Assess individual sweating rates, availability of drinking water, and environmental conditions to create proactive and reactive hydration plans tailored to each marine scenario.
Develop rigorous food safety protocols to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the health of the crew at sea:
“Implement and verify HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) at all stages, from receiving supplies to service, with frequent internal audits and detailed records.”
Research and apply innovations in food preservation and processing technologies to extend shelf life and ensure the availability of essential nutrients during long voyages:
“Implement vacuum and modified atmosphere packaging techniques combined with freeze-drying to optimize preservation and reduce food weight.”
Study plan – Modules
- Biochemical and physiological foundations of nutrition in extreme marine environments: metabolic adaptations and energy homeostasis
- Assessment and diagnosis of nutritional status on expeditions: anthropometric parameters, bioimpedance, and specific biochemical markers
- Design of personalized nutrition plans for conditions of high physical exertion and environmental stress: caloric balance, critical macronutrients and micronutrients
- Optimization of protein and energy intake for the preservation of muscle mass and cognitive performance in cold, humid, and isolated conditions
- Nutritional sources adapted to marine expeditions: freeze-dried foods, dehydrated foods, and specific supplementation
- Management and planning of food logistics: preservation, storage, and quality control in hostile marine environments
- Impact of dehydration and advanced hydration strategies to maintain electrolyte balance during prolonged activities at high altitude sea
- Design of nutritional protocols for the prevention and management of common pathologies on expeditions: chronic fatigue, stress-related injuries, and gastrointestinal dysfunctions
- Real-time monitoring of nutritional status and dynamic adjustment of dietary plans using wearable technologies and biomonitoring
- Interdisciplinary integration: collaboration with expedition physicians, physical trainers, and psychologists to maximize the overall well-being of the marine explorer
- Fundamentals of human biomechanics in marine conditions: structural and functional analysis of the musculoskeletal system under physical stress and variable gravity
- Basic energy metabolism: aerobic and anaerobic pathways, ATP production, and metabolic efficiency in environments of high physical demand
- Biomechanical adaptations to movement in extreme marine environments: postural compensations, muscular endurance, and injury prevention
- Interaction between biomechanics and thermoregulation: impact of cold and humidity on energy expenditure and physical performance
- Bioenergetics applied to nutrition: optimal macronutrients for sustained energy production in marine expeditions
- Modulation of metabolism in response to environmental stress: effects of hypoxia, prolonged immersion, and exposure to ultraviolet radiation
- Clinical and biochemical evaluation of nutritional status in expedition members: markers Metabolic, respiratory, and hormonal profile analysis
Nutritional optimization based on energy metabolism: strategies for caloric balance and supplementation in extreme conditions
Application of wearable technologies for real-time biomechanical and metabolic monitoring during expeditions
Integrated nutrition and biomechanics protocol for preventing muscle fatigue and maintaining performance in situations of high physical demand
Case studies: detailed analysis of metabolic and biomechanical adaptations in marine explorers facing extreme conditions
Design of personalized nutritional programs based on biomechanical parameters and individual metabolic profile
Impact of caloric restriction and dehydration on biomechanical function and metabolic capacity
Implications of metabolic decompensation on decision-making and motor execution during marine missions
Trends and Advances in research on nutritional biomechanics applied to resistance and survival in extreme marine environments
- Biochemical and physiological foundations of energy metabolism in marine conditions: aerobic and anaerobic metabolic pathways, hormonal regulation, and cellular mediators
- Metabolic adaptations and homeostasis in extreme environments: energy balance, thermoregulation, and response to oxidative stress induced by oceanic conditions
- Personalized nutritional design for expeditions: assessment of energy expenditure, macronutrient and micronutrient requirements under high physical and psychological demands
- Ergogenic supplementation and nutritional strategies to optimize performance: use of amino acids, antioxidants, electrolytes, and advanced hydration in maritime contexts
- Pre-, intra-, and post-expedition nutritional protocols: meal timing, carbohydrate loading, muscle recovery, and catabolism prevention
- Impact of marine environmental conditions on bioavailability and nutrient metabolism: influence of pressure, temperature, salinity, and ultraviolet radiation
Real-time biometric and biochemical assessment and monitoring: use of wearable technologies for measuring metabolic parameters and nutritional status during the voyage
Nutritional intervention protocols in critical situations: management of extreme fatigue, dehydration, hyponatremia, and seasickness from a clinical perspective
Interdisciplinary integration: coordination among nutritionists, expedition physicians, and experts in exercise physiology for planning adaptive dietary plans
Case studies and practical applications: detailed analysis of actual marine expeditions, evaluation of applied nutritional strategies, and continuous improvement based on objective results
- Fundamentals of Nutrition in Marine Environments: Essential Macronutrients and Micronutrients for Crews at Sea
- Energy Metabolism Under Extreme Conditions: Physiological Adaptations and Caloric Requirements During Extended Expeditions
- Analysis and Formulation of Food Rations: Nutritional Balance, Energy Density, and Dietary Variability for Ocean Missions
- Food Preservation and Storage Strategies at Sea: Dehydration Techniques, Vacuum Packaging, and Freezing Preservation
- Microbiological Assessment and Food Safety: Health Risk Control, Pathogen Detection, and HACCP Protocols in Marine Environments
- Designing Functional Menus to Optimize the Physical and Cognitive Performance of the Crew Under Adverse Conditions
- Comprehensive Food Inventory Management: Control, Rotation, and Replenishment Systems Necessary to Ensure Efficiency and Sustainability During the Expedition
- Advanced Nutritional Response Protocols In emergencies and critical situations: dehydration, malnutrition, and pathologies related to environmental stress.
Dietary adaptations for different phases of the expedition: pre-departure preparation, navigation, and return, considering climatic factors and physical activity.
Technological tools for real-time nutritional monitoring: use of specialized software, mobile applications, and biomarkers.
Impact of the marine environment on nutrient bioavailability and gastrointestinal absorption under highly unstable conditions.
Training and leadership in onboard food management: team formation, roles, effective communication, and internal audits of the nutritional plan.
Multidisciplinary integration with medical and logistical areas for the implementation of a robust onboard food and health system.
Case studies and analysis of real expeditions: evaluation of results and optimization of dietary plans based on current scientific evidence.
International regulations and certifications applicable to food management on expeditions. Marines: Legal Compliance and Global Quality Standards
- Fundamental principles of nutrition in extreme environments: macronutrients, micronutrients, and their metabolic adaptation in marine expeditions
- Functional nutrition: bioactives, phytonutrients, and epigenetic modulators for long-term cognitive and physical optimization
- Personalized nutritional assessment and monitoring: advanced body composition analysis methods, blood biomarkers, and metabolic tests under marine conditions
- Advanced supplementation: specific formulations of electrolytes, omega-3 fatty acids, and nootropics for endurance and neuroprotection
- Integrated technologies for nutritional management: applications of artificial intelligence, wearable sensors, and support systems for real-time dietary decision-making
- Optimizing energy balance: strategies for preventing muscle breakdown and oxidative stress in hyperbaric environments and with prolonged exposure to adverse conditions
- Intelligent Hydration: Physiological mechanisms and advanced control of fluid balance, including oral rehydration technologies adapted to expeditions
- Impact of nutrition on immune function and the prevention of infectious diseases during marine expeditions
- Design of self-managed diets and food plans for extended periods in isolated environments, with an emphasis on food preservation and safety
- Multidisciplinary Integration: Coordination among health, nutrition, psychology, and logistics professionals to ensure optimal performance and mental resilience on expeditions
- Biochemical and physiological foundations of energy metabolism under extreme environmental stress
- Assessment of nutritional requirements: methods for determining caloric and micronutrient needs in prolonged marine expeditions
- Advanced ration design and formulation: balance of macronutrients, essential micronutrients, and phytochemicals adapted to intense physical activity and harsh environments
- Innovations in nutritional supplementation: application of probiotics, adaptogens, and functional nutrients to optimize resistance and recovery
- Specific food preservation techniques for marine environments: encapsulation, freeze-drying, and the use of modified atmospheres to preserve food quality and safety
- Packaging and storage under oceanic conditions: control of humidity, temperature, and radiation exposure to prevent nutritional and microbiological degradation
- Logistical management of Rations on Expeditions: Provision Planning, Stock Rotation, and Strategies to Minimize Losses and Waste
Impact of Water and Heat Stress on Water and Electrolyte Balance: Formulation of Rehydration Solutions and Supplemental Feeding
Real-Time Nutritional Monitoring and Adaptation: Use of Wearable Technologies to Evaluate Biomarkers and Adjust Rations According to the Team’s Physiological Response
International Regulations and Standards Applicable to Food on Maritime Expeditions: Compliance with Food Safety Requirements and Nutritional Emergency Protocols
Scientific Case Studies and Practical Application on Real Expeditions: Analysis of Successes and Challenges in Feeding and Ration Preservation
Psycho-Nutritional Strategies to Combat Fatigue, Stress, and Mental Exhaustion During Extended Marine Missions
- Fundamentals of strategic planning applied to nutrition in marine expeditions: situational analysis, establishment of nutritional objectives, and definition of resources.
- Nutritional design models: adaptation of energy and micronutrient requirements in extreme marine environments.
- Technological innovations in ration formulation and preservation: freeze-drying techniques, vacuum packaging, modified atmospheres, and their impact on nutritional stability.
- Selection and evaluation of raw materials: nutritional profiles, food toxicology, and sustainability in the supply chain for marine expeditions.
- Monitoring and quality control in food production and storage: microbiological parameters, sensory analysis, and advanced digital traceability techniques.
- Optimization of physical and cognitive performance through ration personalization: integration of algorithms and artificial intelligence-based systems for real-time adjustments.
- Preservation and logistical management in adverse maritime conditions: temperature and humidity control, and contaminant mitigation in holds and warehouses.
- Food safety protocols specific to aquatic environments: international regulations, applicable ISO standards, and risk management.
- Environmental impact assessment and strategies to minimize the ecological footprint of food supplies on extended voyages.
- Implementation of feedback systems and post-voyage analysis for continuous improvement in nutritional planning and food logistics.
- Biochemical Foundations of Micronutrients: Classification, Metabolism, and Function in Muscle Bioenergetics During Prolonged Efforts in Marine Environments
- Assessment of Specific Micronutrient Needs in High-Difficulty Expeditions: Analysis of Physical Exhaustion, Oxidative Stress, and Adaptive Requirements
- Strategic Supplementation: Selection, Dosage, and Timing of Key Micronutrients (Vitamins A, D, E, B Complex, Essential Minerals such as Iron, Zinc, Magnesium, and Selenium) to Optimize Immune Function and Cellular Recovery
- Micronutrient-Ergogenic Supplement Interactions: Antioxidant Agents, Adaptogens, and Bioactive Compounds for Mitigating Oxidative Stress and Chronic Inflammation in Extreme Conditions
- Advanced Nutritional Monitoring Techniques: Biomarkers, Bioimpedance, and Clinical Analysis for the Appropriate Assessment and Personalized Adjustment of Micronutrients in Real Time During Expeditions
- Protocols
- Specific supplementation for common pathologies in marine environments: prevention and management of hypovitaminitis, electrolyte imbalances, anemia, and dehydration
- Optimization of physical and mental performance through micronutrients: molecular mechanisms and neuroprotection against extreme fatigue, environmental stress, and sensory deprivation
- Impact of micronutrient intake on immune resistance and prevention of typical infections in remote aquatic environments
- Adaptation and logistics in food planning: storage, stability, and bioavailability of supplements under conditions of humidity, variable temperature, and prolonged expedition duration
- Formulation and design of personalized supplements: clinical criteria, current regulations, and encapsulation technology to maximize the effectiveness of supplementation on marine expeditions
- Advanced Foundations of Nutritional Design in Marine Environments: Analysis of Energy and Macronutrient Requirements Adapted to Extreme Conditions
- Innovation in Food Formulation: Development of Specific Nutritional Supplements for Endurance and Recovery in Marine Expeditions
- Physiological Stress and Metabolism in Extreme Marine Environments: Influence of Temperature, Humidity, and Prolonged Physical Activity
- Food Preservation Techniques for Long Voyages: Applications of Freeze-Drying, Dehydration, and Modified Atmosphere Packaging
- Evaluation and Mitigation of Microbiological and Oxidative Risks in Long-Lasting Rations
- Physical and Cognitive Performance Strategies through Personalized Nutrition: Use of Biomarkers and Continuous Monitoring
- Dynamic Nutritional Planning: Real-Time Adjustment Based on Environmental Conditions and Team Health Status
- Management Logistics and food provisioning for remote expeditions: cold chain, optimized storage, and preparation of balanced menus
Integration of wearable technologies for nutritional monitoring and energy performance during the expedition
International standards and certifications applicable to food in long-duration maritime operations
- Fundamentals and objectives of the final project: integration of knowledge and practical application in nutrition for extreme marine expeditions
- Advanced nutritional assessment methodologies: anthropometric, biochemical, clinical, and dietary analysis under conditions of high physical and environmental demand
- Design and validation of instruments for personalized nutritional diagnosis: questionnaires, food logs, and remote monitoring technologies
- Physiological and metabolic factors in extreme marine environments: adaptation to altitude, thermal stress, hypoxia, and prolonged exertion
- Identification of specific nutritional risks: dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, electrolyte imbalances, and immersion syndrome
- Formulation of individualized nutritional plans: calculation of energy, macronutrient, and micronutrient requirements based on the biophysical profile and workload
- Planning food logistics for expeditions: food selection, preservation, storage, and estimation of rations for long voyages Durations
- Integration of supplementation and functional nutrition strategies: use of adaptogens, antioxidants, and ergogenic products in marine contexts
- Nutritional monitoring and adjustment protocols during the expedition: continuous evaluation using biomarkers and wearable technology for risk prevention
- Ethical, legal, and cultural aspects in the implementation of the nutritional protocol: informed consent, respect for food traditions, and international regulations
- Development and presentation of the final project: preparation of a technical report, scientific justification, critical analysis, and proposals for improvement for future expeditions
- Simulation and oral defense of the protocol before a multidisciplinary panel: communication and argumentation skills for professional implementation
Career prospects
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- Onboard Nutritionist: Development of tailored menus, food quality control, and nutritional education for the crew.
- Nutrition Consultant for Marine Expeditions: Design of dietary strategies for scientific, sporting, or adventure expeditions in maritime environments.
- Food Purchasing and Logistics Manager for Shipping Companies: Supplier selection, supply chain optimization, and onboard food stock control.
- Researcher in Food and Health in the Maritime Sector: Studies on the impact of nutrition on the performance, health, and well-being of seafarers.
- Food Safety Consultant for the Naval Industry: Implementation of Food Safety Management Systems (HACCP) on ships and offshore platforms.
- Nutrition and Food Trainer for Professionals in the
- Marine: Design and delivery of courses and workshops on healthy nutrition and food in the maritime environment.
- Developer of specific food products for maritime life: Creation of foods and nutritional supplements adapted to the needs of life at sea.
- Consultant for collective dining facilities in shipping companies and shipyards: Optimization of menus and management of dining facilities to guarantee a healthy and balanced diet.
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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
- Optimized Nutrition: Master the science of nutrition adapted to the extreme demands of the marine environment.
- Advanced Food Planning: Learn to design balanced and efficient menus for long-duration expeditions, considering resource availability.
- Physiological Adaptation: Understand the specific nutritional needs to combat stress, fatigue, and adverse environmental conditions at sea.
- Food Safety Onboard: Implement hygiene and preservation protocols to ensure food quality and safety in confined spaces.
- Performance and Recovery: Maximize the crew’s physical and mental performance through personalized and effective nutritional strategies.
Testimonials
This master’s program provided me with the necessary tools to optimize the performance and health of the crew during a three-month research expedition in the South Atlantic. I designed personalized nutritional plans, taking into account the limitations of the marine environment, individual allergies, and the high physical and mental demands of the work. The result was a significant improvement in the team’s energy levels, concentration, and overall well-being, minimizing illness and maximizing the expedition’s success.
The Master’s in Gastronomy & Hospitality at Sea provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to advance from line cook to Executive Chef on a luxury cruise ship. I learned to manage multicultural teams, optimize resources in a dynamic environment, and design innovative menus tailored to the demands of the industry. My onboard experience has improved significantly thanks to the training I received.
This master’s degree provided me with the necessary tools to design and implement effective nutritional plans in a demanding marine environment. During the South Atlantic expedition, I successfully optimized the crew’s physical and cognitive performance, preventing nutritional deficiencies and improving morale on board despite logistical limitations. Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience in a real-world setting was fundamental to my success.
“Applying the knowledge gained from the Master’s in Nutrition and Food for Marine Expeditions was crucial to the success of the Antarctic expedition. I designed a nutritional plan that optimized the crew’s physical and mental performance under extreme conditions, taking into account space and resource limitations. Thanks to this, we maintained a high level of energy and health throughout the three-month voyage, exceeding initial expectations and completing all the proposed research objectives.”
Frequently asked questions
Marine expeditions.
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.
Nutrition and dietetics professionals interested in feeding in marine environments, including cruise ships, oil platforms, fishing vessels, or oceanographic research.
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.
- Fundamentals and objectives of the final project: integration of knowledge and practical application in nutrition for extreme marine expeditions
- Advanced nutritional assessment methodologies: anthropometric, biochemical, clinical, and dietary analysis under conditions of high physical and environmental demand
- Design and validation of instruments for personalized nutritional diagnosis: questionnaires, food logs, and remote monitoring technologies
- Physiological and metabolic factors in extreme marine environments: adaptation to altitude, thermal stress, hypoxia, and prolonged exertion
- Identification of specific nutritional risks: dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, electrolyte imbalances, and immersion syndrome
- Formulation of individualized nutritional plans: calculation of energy, macronutrient, and micronutrient requirements based on the biophysical profile and workload
- Planning food logistics for expeditions: food selection, preservation, storage, and estimation of rations for long voyages Durations
- Integration of supplementation and functional nutrition strategies: use of adaptogens, antioxidants, and ergogenic products in marine contexts
- Nutritional monitoring and adjustment protocols during the expedition: continuous evaluation using biomarkers and wearable technology for risk prevention
- Ethical, legal, and cultural aspects in the implementation of the nutritional protocol: informed consent, respect for food traditions, and international regulations
- Development and presentation of the final project: preparation of a technical report, scientific justification, critical analysis, and proposals for improvement for future expeditions
- Simulation and oral defense of the protocol before a multidisciplinary panel: communication and argumentation skills for professional implementation
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.