Diploma in Conservation of Historic Ships
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Historic Ship Conservation
This program provides you with the essential tools and knowledge for the preservation of maritime heritage. Learn to diagnose and address the specific challenges faced by historic vessels, from identifying materials to applying specialized restoration techniques. This program will enable you to contribute to the protection of naval history, ensuring the survival of these nautical treasures for future generations.
Differential Advantages
- Cutting-edge Methodologies: Apply the latest advances in naval conservation and restoration.
- Real-world Case Studies: Analyze landmark projects and learn from experts in the field.
- Hands-on Approach: Develop key skills through workshops and simulations.
- Networking: Connect with leading professionals and institutions in the sector.
- Professional Certification: Earn a recognized diploma that will boost your career.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 30-09-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Museum and heritage professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge of specialized techniques for vessel conservation.
- Shipwrights and naval artisans wishing to update their skills with modern and sustainable methodologies.
- Maritime historians and archaeologists interested in understanding the practical challenges of preserving naval heritage.
- Managers of historical and tourist sites seeking to enhance the value of their collection of antique ships.
- Sailing enthusiasts and volunteers aspiring to actively participate in naval restoration and maintenance projects.
Flexibility for your learning
Designed for professionals and enthusiasts: theoretical and practical content, real case studies and access to complementary digital resources.
Objectives and competencies

Documenting and diagnosing the state of conservation of historic vessels:
“Using visual inspection methodologies, non-destructive testing, and historical analysis to identify deterioration, structural damage, and significant alterations, generating detailed reports and conservation plans.”

Apply specialized techniques for the preservation of original materials:
“Using non-invasive and reversible methods, prioritizing the long-term stability of the object and its historical context.”

Manage naval conservation projects in compliance with international standards:
“Implement PMI methodologies and IMO regulations for the planning, execution and control of ship repair and modernization projects.”

Develop leadership skills to coordinate multidisciplinary teams in naval restoration projects:
“To facilitate effective communication, conflict resolution, and collaborative decision-making among engineers, craftspeople, and other specialists.”

Interpret and apply current legislation on maritime heritage:
“Identify and apply relevant national and international laws for the protection of maritime heritage (e.g., shipwrecks, underwater archaeological sites), ensuring regulatory compliance in maritime operations and notifying findings to the competent authorities.”

Evaluate and select appropriate intervention methods according to the type and historical value of the ship:
“Consider the reversibility of the intervention, the compatibility of materials and techniques with the original structure, and the impact on the historical authenticity of the vessel.”
Curriculum - Modules
1.1 Principles of authenticity, integrity, significance, and cultural value in historic vessels
1.2 Ethics of intervention: minimal intervention, compatibility, reversibility, and documentary traceability
1.3 Typologies of historic vessels and constructive evolution: contexts, functions, and regional schools
1.4 Methodologies of preventive conservation and control of agents of deterioration (environment, use, storage)
1.5 Models of heritage governance: owners, museums, authorities, and custody mechanisms
1.6 Strategic planning of the life cycle of heritage assets: conservation, operation, and exhibition
1.7 Development of the Conservation Master Plan: scope, priorities, success criteria and sustainability
2.1 Technical inspection protocols and survey campaign planning (afloat and dry land)
2.2 Recording standards: condition sheets, technical photography, metadata, and version control
2.3 Geometric surveying: plans, sections, tolerances, deformations, and dimensional control
2.4 Applied digital capture: photogrammetry, 3D scanning, heritage CAD/BIM, and digital twin
2.5 Structural diagnosis of the hull: frames, beams, strakes, decks, and critical joints
2.6 Non-destructive testing (NDT) and on-site assessment: humidity, ultrasound, thermography, endoscopy
2.7 Criticality and prioritization matrices: risks, failure modes, emergencies and intervention roadmap
3.1 Naval timbers: identification of species, properties, aging and hygroscopic behavior
3.2 Biodeterioration: fungi, bacteria, xylophages and marine organisms; Detection, control, and prevention
3.3 Metals and corrosion: galvanic corrosion, pitting, crevice corrosion, underpaint corrosion, and compatibilities
3.4 Historical and modern coatings: stratigraphy, compatibility, adhesion, and UV/salt degradation
3.5 Rigging, textiles, and sails: fiber preservation, tension, degradation, and storage
3.6 Multimetal and wood-metal interactions: galvanic couples, moisture points, and microenvironments
3.7 Contaminants, salts, and environmental cycles: crystallization, migration, humidity fatigue, and temperature fatigue
4.1 Humidity management, controlled drying and dimensional stabilization of historical structures
4.2 Repair criteria vs. Replacement: conservation of original material and limits of intervention
4.3 Applied riverside carpentry: grafts, scarves, splices, bends and traditional assemblies
4.4 Fixing systems and joints: nails, bolts, rivets, dowels and mechanical compatibilities
4.5 Caulking and watertightness: materials, joint preparation, pathologies and leak control
4.6 Roofs and superstructures: beams, deck strakes, coamings, hatches and critical details
4.7 Intervention quality control: procedures, criteria of acceptance, records and traceability
5.1 Cleaning, stabilization, and passivation of metals: criteria, levels, and long-term protection
5.2 Conservation of hardware, anchors, and fittings: assessment, functional restoration, and aesthetic preservation
5.3 Engines and propulsion: preservation, operational restoration, storage, and fluid management
5.4 Dewatering, fuel, and water systems: integrity, compatibility, safety, and contamination
5.5 Electrical and discreet modernization: safety, conduits, protection, and minimizing visual impact
5.6 Integrated corrosion protection: primers, barriers, anodes, and strategies for Maintenance
5.7 Technical and fire safety in heritage: risk mitigation without loss of authenticity
6.1 Rigging Architecture: Typologies, Loads, Critical Points, and Conservation Criteria
6.2 Standing and Running Rigging: Materials, Degradation, Compatible Replacement, and Documentation of Maneuvers
6.3 Historic Sails: Textile Conservation, Repair, Reinforcements, and Preventive Treatments
6.4 Ropework, Knots, and Traditional Techniques: Standardization, Strength, and Preservation of Knowledge
6.5 Steering Elements: Rudder, Tiller, Wheel, Keepers, and Associated Mechanisms
6.6 Fittings and Minor Carpentry: Bitts, Cleats, Blocks, Ropes, and Details of Use
6.7 Functional vs. museographic conservation: criteria for navigation, exhibition and educational use
7.1 Conservation Project Management: Scope, WBS, Schedule, Costs, and Change Control
7.2 Technical Contracting and Procurement: Tender Documents, Specifications, Supplier Selection, and Traceability
7.3 HSE in Naval Restoration: Work Permits, Hot Work, Hazardous Atmospheres, and Waste Management
7.4 Applicable Heritage and Maritime Regulations: Permits, Authorizations, and Legal Protection of the Asset
7.5 Multidisciplinary Team Management: Roles, Coordination, Communication, and Decision-Making
7.6 Quality System and Documentation: Procedures, Records, Audits, and Lessons Learned Lessons learned
7.7 Risk and continuity management: contingency plans, emergencies and preservation in the event of incidents
Career opportunities
- Conservator/Restorer of Historic Ships: Conservation and restoration work in shipyards, maritime museums, and private collections.
- Maritime Heritage Manager: Coordination of conservation, research, and documentation projects for historic ships.
- Maritime Museum Technician: Design and installation of exhibitions, collection management, and educational activities related to naval history.
- Naval History Researcher: Academic research on the construction, use, and significance of historic ships.
- Skilled Shipwright: Shipwrighting, rigging, and other traditional trades related to shipbuilding.
- Maritime Conservation Consultant: Advising owners, institutions, and public administrations on the conservation of historic ships.
- Maritime Tourism Educator/Guide: Design and implementation of tourist routes, workshops, and educational activities related to maritime heritage.
Historical Reenactment Project Manager: Planning and coordination of projects for the construction of replicas of historic ships.
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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
- Mastery of Techniques: Learn restoration and conservation methodologies, from initial documentation to the application of specific treatments.
- Materials and Technologies: Deepen your knowledge of traditional and modern materials used in historic vessels and their interaction with the environment.
- Legislation and Heritage: Understand the legal framework for the protection of maritime heritage and the regulations applicable to the conservation of historic ships.
- Case Studies: Analyze real-world conservation projects, identifying challenges and solutions implemented on different types of vessels.
- Specialized Networking: Connect with experts and professionals in the sector, expanding your network of contacts and opportunities jobs.
Testimonials
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I acquired a solid theoretical and practical knowledge of historic ship conservation techniques, from documenting and diagnosing the vessel’s condition to applying specific treatments to wood, metals, and other materials. I was able to apply what I learned to a real project, restoring a small traditional boat, which solidified my skills and opened doors to new professional opportunities in the nautical heritage sector.
The Diploma in Maritime Cultural Heritage provided me with the theoretical and practical tools to develop a project to recover the oral history of the shipwrights in my town. Thanks to the knowledge I acquired, I was able to document and disseminate their ancestral techniques, contributing to the safeguarding of this important intangible heritage.
This diploma program provided me with the essential theoretical and practical tools to tackle the conservation of a 17th-century Spanish galleon. I applied the knowledge I gained to the restoration of its figurehead, successfully recovering its original polychromy and consolidating the deteriorated wood, thus contributing significantly to the preservation of this important piece of maritime heritage.
This diploma program provided me with the essential theoretical and practical tools to tackle the conservation of a 17th-century galleon. I applied the knowledge I gained to the restoration of its complex frame system, achieving not only its structural stabilization but also the preservation of the vessel’s historical authenticity—a result praised by international experts.
Frequently asked questions
To provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conserve, restore and maintain historic ships.
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 focuses on the practical conservation of historic ships.
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.
#VALUE!
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
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
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