Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Course on the use of nautical charts and GPS
courseThis course provides you with the essential skills for safe and accurate navigation. Learn to interpret nautical charts, master GPS positioning systems, and combine them effectively to plan and execute your voyages. This…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts23 November
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Course on the use of nautical charts and GPS?
The Using Nautical Charts and GPS
course
This course provides you with the essential skills for safe and accurate navigation. Learn to interpret nautical charts, master GPS positioning systems, and combine them effectively to plan and execute your voyages. This course is ideal for both recreational sailors and maritime professionals looking to update and consolidate their knowledge of traditional and modern navigation.
Key Benefits
- Mastery of Nautical Charting: Interpretation of symbols, calculation of bearings and distances, and chart correction.
- GPS Systems Expert: Configuration, data interpretation, and use of advanced navigation functions.
- Chart and GPS Integration: Combining traditional and modern methods for reliable and accurate navigation.
- Safe Route Planning: Development of navigation plans considering factors such as tides, currents, and hazards.
- Navigation Safety: Application of best practices to avoid risks and navigate with confidence in any conditions.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
09-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Navigation Mastery: Learn to interpret and effectively use nautical charts for safe navigation.
- GPS Accuracy: Master using GPS for navigation, route planning, and precise location.
- Tool Integration: Combine traditional chart knowledge with GPS technology for reliable hybrid navigation.
- Maritime Safety: Improve your ability to make informed and safe decisions at sea, minimizing risks and optimizing routes.
- Practical Cases: Apply your acquired knowledge through practical exercises and real-world navigation simulations.
- Increase your confidence and efficiency at sea by mastering the essential tools for a successful voyage.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Introduction to nautical charts
- Types of cards and scales
- Mercator Projection
- Hydrographic Organisations
- Margin Information
- Card Update
02
Symbolism and card reading
- Probes and Veriles
- Background Nature
- Dangers for navigation
- Beacons and lights
- ABBREVIATIONS
03
Work on the chart
- Coordinates
- Directions and distances
- Delayed situation
- Situation by esteem
- Plot tools
04
GPS Basics
- System Operation
- Precision and errors
- Chart and GPS datum
- Waypoints and routes
- Alarms
05
Integration and practices
- Contrast of the GPS position with the chart
- Navigation before a GPS failure
- Mobile applications
- Pilot exercises
- Final project: Planning a route in letter and GPS
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Recreational and professional boaters looking to master traditional and modern navigation, integrating nautical charts and GPS.Nautical students and sea enthusiasts wanting to acquire a solid foundation in navigation, from basic principles to advanced technology use.Recreational and fishing boat skippers needing to update their knowledge and get the most out of their navigation equipment.Mar
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Interpreting nautical chart information for accurate navigation
- 02Integrate GPS data with the nautical chart to improve positional accuracy
- 03Use GPS as a complementary tool to nautical charts for navigational safety
- 04Solving navigation problems using a combination of nautical charts and GPS
- 05Understand and apply current regulations on the use of nautical charts and GPS in navigation
- 06Evaluate the reliability of the GPS information and compare it with the information on the nautical chart
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Navigator on recreational and professional vessels: Responsible for safe navigation using nautical charts and GPS.
02Skipper: Route planning and navigation control on various types of vessels.
03Fishing vessel crew member: Use of GPS and charts for locating fishing grounds and safe navigation.
04Technician in nautical service companies: Installation, maintenance, and technical support of navigation equipment (GPS, plotters).
05Maritime safety inspector: Verification of compliance with navigation regulations and onboard equipment.
06Cartographer/Surveyor: Creation and updating of nautical charts and maps using GPS data.
07Nautical consultant: Planning advice of routes, equipment selection, and navigational safety.
08Navigation Instructor: Teaching navigation techniques using nautical charts and GPS in nautical schools.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
A nautical chart is a graphic representation of a maritime area, while a GPS is a system that provides location and other navigation data in real time.
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.
The nautical chart.
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 Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Basic knowledge of maritime navigation and nautical geography; or practical experience on recreational or professional vessels.Prior Knowledge:Familiarity with the concepts of latitude, longitude, bearings, and distances at sea.Required Materials:Nautical calculator, protractor, parallel ruler (optional), pencils, and eraser.Documentation:ID/Passport.```
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Frequently Asked Questions
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