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
Introduction to Coastal Navigation Course
This course provides you with the essential tools to explore the coastline safely and confidently. Learn the fundamentals of nautical charting, the use of the compass and GPS, the interpretation of maritime signals, and the rules…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts28 December
Places20 / 20
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Programme overview
What is the Introduction to Coastal Navigation Course?
The Introduction to Coastal Navigation
This course provides you with the essential tools to explore the coastline safely and confidently. Learn the fundamentals of nautical charting, the use of the compass and GPS, the interpretation of maritime signals, and the rules of navigation. This practical course will prepare you to plan your voyages, avoid hazards, and get the most out of sailing or motoring along the coast.
This course provides you with the essential tools to explore the coastline safely and confidently. Learn the fundamentals of nautical charting, the use of the compass and GPS, the interpretation of maritime signals, and the rules of navigation. This practical course will prepare you to plan your voyages, avoid hazards, and fully enjoy coastal sailing or motoring.
Differential Advantages
- Practical Approach: navigation exercises with real charts and simulations.
- Maritime Safety: emergency protocols, basic meteorology, and VHF communication.
- Voyage Planning: calculation of tides, currents, and distances.
- Interpretation of Navigational Aids: buoys, beacons, and lighthouses.
- Experienced Instructors: professional navigators with extensive coastal experience.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
09-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Essential Fundamentals: Learn the basics of coastal navigation, including nautical charts, instruments, and positioning techniques.
- Voyage Planning: Master creating safe and efficient routes, considering tides, currents, and maritime hazards.
- Safety at Sea: Understand emergency and rescue protocols, as well as best practices for responsible and safe navigation.
- Meteorological Interpretation: Learn to predict and respond to changing weather conditions for informed navigation.
- Onboard Practice: Apply your knowledge in simulations and practical exercises, preparing you for navigation real.
- Get ready to explore the coast with confidence and safety!
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Basics of coastal navigation
- Coordinates, directions and distances
- Nautical units
- Basic instruments
- Nautical publications
- Degree regulations
02
Nautical charts and their use
- Symbology and scales
- Heading
- Distance measurement
- Situation on the chart
- Card correction
03
The needle and the courses
- Decline and detour
- Total correction
- Delays and markings
- ENFILATIONS
- Pilot exercises
04
Tides, currents and beacon
- Tides Calculation
- Currents and despondency
- IALA Beacon System
- Lights and headlights
- Tickets to Port
05
Planning a coastal crossing
- Preparation of the navigation plan
- Combined use of GPS and letter
- Refuge Ports
- Registration in the logbook
- Final Project: Planned Coastal Crossing
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 sailors who want to learn the fundamentals of planning and executing safe coastal passages.Sailing beginners looking for a comprehensive introduction to nautical charts, instruments, and navigation rules.Boat crew members who want to improve their skills and actively contribute to coastal navigation.Sea lovers who aspire to obtain basic nautical licenses and navigate confidently
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 charts and related publications
- 02Use coastal navigation instruments accurately
- 03Apply navigation rules and avoid collisions on the coast
- 04Managing maritime safety and responding to emergencies in coastal navigation
- 05Understanding environmental factors and their influence on coastal navigation
- 06Determine the vessel's position using coastal navigation techniques
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Recreational Craft Skipper (PER): Independent and responsible coastal navigation.
02Recreational Seaman: Assistance in navigation and vessel maintenance.
03Nautical Activities Instructor: Instructor in dinghy sailing, kayaking, paddle surfing, etc. in coastal areas.
04Work in marinas: Mooring, boat assistance, basic maintenance.
05Boat rental companies: Management and maintenance of recreational fleets.
06Nautical tourism companies: Coastal excursions, whale watching, etc.
07Recreational fishing: Responsible and safe fishing practices in coastal areas.
08Marine wildlife observer: Participation in coastal research and conservation projects.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Port refers to the left side of a vessel when facing forward (bow), while starboard refers to the right side.
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 main difference lies in the proximity to the coast, which in coastal waters offers visual references and the possibility of refuge in case of emergency, while on the high seas navigation is carried out far from the coast, without visual terrestrial references and with less availability of shelter options.
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 Profile/Experience:No specific qualification is required, but basic experience in navigation or nautical activities is recommended; or demonstrated interest in learning about coastal navigation.Prior Knowledge:Familiarity with basic nautical terminology and nautical charts is desirable, but not essential.Required Materials:Nautical compass, protractor, parallel ruler (recommended but not required).Requirements (for online):Device with internet access to view materials and participate in activities.```
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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