Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Diploma · 800 h · 8 modules
Diploma in Yacht and Sports Boat Maneuvering
This program prepares you to master the art of recreational boating, from theoretical fundamentals to advanced piloting techniques. Learn to maneuver safely and precisely in diverse conditions, optimizing your vessel's…
Duration800 h
FormatOnline
Starts7 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
Prior Knowledge Assessment
These are the skills this programme builds. Tick the ones you already have and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is really for you.
Your profile
Tick what you already know to see your result.
Programme overview
What is the Diploma in Yacht and Sports Boat Maneuvering?
The Diploma in Yacht and Recreational Boat Maneuvering
This program prepares you to master the art of recreational boating, from theoretical fundamentals to advanced piloting techniques. Learn to maneuver safely and precisely in diverse conditions, optimizing your vessel's performance. This intensive program provides you with the knowledge and skills to sail with confidence and fully enjoy the nautical experience.
Differential Advantages
- Expert Harbor Maneuvers: Dock and undock safely in different configurations and wind conditions.
- Advanced Coastal Navigation: Plan passages, interpret nautical charts, and use electronic navigation aids.
- Onboard Emergency Management: Act effectively in critical situations such as breakdowns, man overboard, or adverse weather conditions.
- Sailing Performance Optimization: Adjust sails, understand wind dynamics, and improve your sailing speed and efficiency.
- Intensive Practice on Real Vessels: Apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations under the supervision of experienced instructors.
Programme type
Diploma
Study mode
Online
Duration
800 hours
Modules
8
Start date
29-11-2026
Programme highlights
- Master Navigation: Learn advanced yacht maneuvering and control techniques in diverse conditions.
- Safety and Efficiency: Delve into safety protocols, resource optimization, and preventative maintenance.
- Real-World Case Studies: Tackle simulations and case studies to hone your decision-making skills.
- Professional Certification: Earn a recognized diploma that will boost your career in the recreational boating industry.
- Expert Instructors: Learn from professionals with extensive experience in navigation and maritime education.
- Prepare to lead with confidence and safety in the world of recreational boating.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 8 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Basics of the sports boat
- Types of yachts and sports boats
- Government and Propulsion Elements
- Nautical terminology
- Mandatory equipment
- Degree regulations
- Differences between glide and displacement hulls
- Boat documentation
- Pre-departure checks
02
Manoeuvre Theory
- Propeller effect and blade step
- Influence of wind and current
- Hull pivot and response
- Manoeuvres with one and two engines
- Bow and stern propellers
- Manoeuvre with joystick and IPS systems
- Manoeuvre in small spaces
- Effect of cargo and trim
03
Docking and undocking
- Preparation of ropes and defences
- Docking, on the side and on the jetty
- Use of Springs
- Crosswind manoeuvres
- Communication with the team
- Docking in Mediterranean ports
- Docking with current
- Use of the gateway and security
04
Anchoring and Mooring
- Choice of anchorage
- Row calculation
- Anchoring with two anchors
- Mooring a buoy and a dead
- Anchoring Surveillance
- Anchoring with Orinque
- Lift the anchor with wind
- Night Anchoring
05
Sailing Manoeuvres
- TURN AND TRANSFERRED
- Taking curls
- Navigation with different directions
- Sailing Port Manoeuvres
- Crew Management
- Navigation with Spinnaker and Gennaker
- Rag reduction
- Solo sailing manoeuvres
06
Emergency manoeuvres
- Man overboard
- Engine or rudder breakdown
- Trailer
- Dry-docking
- Emergency Communications
- Fire on board
- Waterway
- Boat abandonment
07
Bad Weather Navigation
- Meteorological interpretation
- Boat preparation
- Layer Techniques and Running Temporary
- Fatigue management
- Entry into port in bad weather
- Shelter planning
- Night navigation
- Using Layer Anchor
08
Practices and Evaluation
- Output Planning
- Manoeuvres in Port
- Coastal navigation
- Skills Assessment
- Navigation Journal
- Skipper self-assessment
- Personal Improvement Plan
- Safety and good practices
Workload
Study Time and Workload
800 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
Yacht skippers, captains of recreational craft, and experienced sailors looking to perfect their maneuvering skills in diverse conditions and scenarios.Sailing instructors and industry professionals who wish to deepen their technical and pedagogical knowledge in the handling of yachts and recreational craft.Yacht and recreational craft owners interested in maximizing the safety and efficiency
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
- 01Mastering navigation and anchoring techniques
- 02Managing safety and emergencies on board
- 03Maintaining and repairing the basic systems of a vessel
- 04Interpreting maritime regulations and their practical application
- 05Develop advanced skills in handling sailing and motor yachts
- 06Optimize fuel efficiency and resource management
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Yacht Skipper / Sports Craft Skipper: Responsible for the navigation, safety, and maintenance of the vessel.
02Sailing Instructor: In nautical schools, teaching theoretical and practical courses on handling yachts and sports craft.
03Nautical Charter: Boat rental, both with and without a skipper, managing the rental and maintenance.
04Water Sports and Recreation Companies: Offering excursions, boat trips, and other water-related activities.
05Marinas and Yacht Clubs: Performing mooring duties, assisting boats, and maintaining facilities.
06Boat Sales and Repairs: Advising clients on boat purchases and performing repair and maintenance tasks.
07Organization of nautical events: Participating in the organization and management of regattas, competitions, and other sailing-related events.
08Boat maintenance and repair work: Cleaning, painting, engine repair, and other specialized work.
09```
Questions
Entry Requirements
Yachts and sports boats.
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.
Yes, this diploma covers the operation of both sailing and motor vessels.
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:Recreational boating qualification (Recreational Craft Skipper - PER or higher) or demonstrable experience in handling yachts and sports boats.Recommended Prior Knowledge:Basic knowledge of navigation, maritime safety, and nautical regulations.Documentation:Copy of ID/Passport, copy of boating qualification (if applicable), proof of experience (if you do not have a qualification), curriculum vitae (optional).Physical Aptitudes:Be in adequate physical condition to carry out practical exercises Navigation and maneuvering on boats.```
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Leave your details and admissions will write back. If you already know this is the one, go straight to the application and pay in the same session.