Diploma in Cinematography at Sea
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Cinematography at Sea
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of audiovisual production in maritime environments. Learn to master the essential techniques and tools for capturing stunning images in extreme conditions, from planning and logistics to operating cameras and lighting equipment on the move. This program will provide you with the skills needed to create captivating visual narratives, harnessing the vastness and power of the ocean as your stage.
Differential Advantages
- Hands-on Training: simulated filming in different weather conditions and marine environments.
- Mastery of Specialized Equipment: cranes, underwater drones, stabilization systems, and underwater cameras.
- Maritime Safety: safety and survival protocols at sea to guarantee the integrity of the equipment and personnel.
- Advanced Post-Production: video editing and color correction to optimize the quality of images captured at sea.
- Professional Networking: contacts with experts in the film industry and companies in the maritime sector.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 01-10-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Directors, Producers, and Assistant Directors looking to master logistics and safety on maritime shoots.
- Directors of Photography and Camera Operators wanting to refine lighting and framing techniques in challenging aquatic environments.
- Screenwriters and Storytellers interested in creating impactful narratives with the sea as a protagonist.
- Post-production and VFX Specialists needing to integrate marine visual effects realistically and convincingly.
- Film and Audiovisual Communication Students aspiring to a unique specialization in the field of nautical filmmaking.
Flexibility for creative professionals:
Online classes accessible, practical exercises adaptable to your pace and networking with industry experts.
Objectives and competencies
Master innovative maritime filming techniques:
“Using drones and underwater equipment, optimizing stabilization and remote control in diverse weather and wave conditions.”
Adapting film equipment to extreme conditions:
“Implement protection protocols against extreme cold/heat, humidity, dust and vibrations, ensuring the operability and durability of cameras, lenses and power systems.”
Efficiently managing film logistics in maritime environments:
“Plan optimized maritime routes considering environmental factors, safety, and port regulations, using specialized navigation software and effective communication with competent authorities.”
Creating impactful visual narratives in the marine environment:
Master composition, lighting, and editing to convey concise and emotional stories about marine life, conservation, and exploration.
To effectively manage film crews at sea:
Manage the safety, logistics and communication of the team, optimizing resources and minimizing risks in the marine environment.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of the team in maritime filming operations:
“Implement specific safety protocols for maritime filming, including risk assessment, emergency plans, and ongoing team training in safety procedures and equipment use.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Screenwriting: Maritime History, Formats, and Genres
- Audiovisual Narrative: Elements, Structure, and Characters in the Maritime Context
- Cinematic Language: Shots, Camera Movements, Lighting, and Sound at Sea
- Research and Documentation: Primary and Secondary Sources on the Maritime World
- Character Development: Archetypes, Motivations, and Conflicts in Maritime Environments
- Screenplay Structure: Exposition, Rising Action, and Resolution in Sea Stories
- Dialogue: Construction, Rhythm, and Realism in Maritime Conversations
- Technical Script: Breakdown, Storyboard, and Filming Planning at Sea
- Adapting Maritime Literary Works to Audiovisual Language
- Analysis of Case studies: a study of iconic screenplays and films of the maritime genre
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- Introduction to Underwater Photography: History, Evolution, and Pioneers.
- Underwater Photography Equipment: Cameras, Housings, Lenses, and Lighting.
- Principles of Light Underwater: Absorption, Scattering, and Color.
- Underwater Lighting Techniques: Natural Light, Flashes, Spotlights, and Snoots.
- Underwater Photographic Composition: Composition Rules Adapted to the Environment.
- Underwater Visual Storytelling: Telling Stories Through Images.
- Planning Underwater Photography Projects: Objectives, Logistics, and Safety.
- Digital Workflow: Developing, Editing, and Post-Production of Underwater Images.
- Ethics and Conservation: Respect for the environment and marine life.
Copyright and commercialization: Protection of the work and business models.
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- Introduction to Filmmaking at Sea: Unique Challenges and Opportunities
- Maritime Safety for the Film Crew: Regulations, Protective Equipment, and Emergency Protocols
- Marine Filming Equipment: Underwater Cameras, Aquatic Drones, Stabilizers, and Adapted Lighting Systems
- Logistical Planning: Permits, Insurance, Equipment and Personnel Transportation
- Climatology and Oceanography: Weather Forecasting, Ocean Currents, and Their Impact on Filming
- Direction of Photography at Sea: Natural and Artificial Lighting, Filters, and Techniques for Capturing the Beauty of the Marine Environment
- Art Direction and Production Design: Creating Floating Sets, Adapted Costumes, and Realistic Environments
- Sound Recording in Marine Environments
- Underwater: Underwater microphones, sea noise isolation, and post-production techniques.
- Post-production and visual effects: Color correction, removal of unwanted elements, and creation of marine special effects.
- Environmental ethics and sustainability: Minimizing environmental impact and respecting marine life.
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- Introduction to Visual Narrative: Basic Elements and Principles
- The Sea as a Setting: Archetypes, Symbolism, and Historical Representations
- Basic Screenwriting: Narrative Structure, Characters, and Conflict
- From Concept to Scene: Creating Memorable Marine Characters
- Nautical Dialogue: Authenticity, Slang, and Subtext
- Visual Language: Composition, Framing, and Camera Movement in Marine Environments
- Production Design: Locations, Set Design, and Period and Contemporary Costumes
- Advanced Screenwriting: Subplots, Plot Twists, and Resolution
- The Maritime Documentary: Ethics, Research, and Construction of the reality
- Adaptation of maritime literary works to film scripts
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- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Maritime Visual Narrative: History and Evolution
- Fundamentals of Cinematography: Light, Color, Composition
- Photographic and Cinematographic Equipment: Cameras, Lenses, Supports, Lighting
- Filming Techniques in the Maritime Environment: Stabilization, Protection, Sound
- Planning and Pre-production: Script, Storyboard, Scouting, Permits
- Directing Actors and Extras in Maritime Environments: Safety, Communication
- Post-production and Editing: Software, Color Correction, Visual Effects
- Visual Narrative and Storytelling: Character Development, Rhythm, Editing
- Ethics and Responsibility in the Representation of the Sea and its Inhabitants
- Maritime Legislation and Copyright: permissions, licenses, regulations
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Career opportunities
- Underwater Filmmaker / Underwater Camera Operator: Filming documentaries, films, and series in marine environments.
- Marine Director of Photography: Responsible for lighting and visual aesthetics in film productions at sea.
- Audiovisual Producer specializing in maritime environments: Creating content for shipping companies, marine conservation organizations, and tourism.
- Video Editor with a focus on footage filmed at sea: Post-production of marine film and documentary projects.
- Screenwriter specializing in maritime stories: Developing screenplays for films, series, and documentaries set at sea.
- Film Producer with experience in maritime logistics: Managing film projects at sea, including permits, transportation, and safety.
- Production Consultant For filming at sea: technical and logistical advice for film productions taking place in marine environments.
Documentary filmmaker specializing in marine life and conservation: creation of documentaries about marine fauna and flora, as well as the environmental challenges facing the ocean.
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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
- Master the Art: Learn the essential filmmaking techniques for shooting in challenging maritime environments.
- Professional Equipment: Become familiar with the use of specialized cameras and equipment for high-quality offshore productions.
- Visual Storytelling: Develop skills to create captivating stories using the sea as a backdrop.
- Safety and Logistics: Understand the safety protocols and crucial logistical planning for successful filming at sea.
- Maritime Post-Production: Learn to edit and enhance your footage for stunning visual impact.
Testimonials
The Diploma in Cinematography at Sea exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid technical and practical knowledge, from pre-production to post-production, with a unique focus on the challenges and opportunities of filming in maritime environments. The hands-on experience on board was invaluable, allowing me to apply what I learned in a real and complex scenario. This diploma has provided me with the tools and confidence necessary to tackle ambitious film projects at sea.
The Nautical Photography & Filmmaking Diploma exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid technical and practical knowledge, from composition and lighting in aquatic environments to the operation of drones and underwater cameras. The program gave me the confidence and tools to professionally document the beauty and action of the nautical world. Today, thanks to the diploma, I am building a successful career as a filmmaker specializing in water sports.
The Diploma in Cinematography at Sea exceeded my expectations. Learning the fundamentals of visual storytelling in such a unique and inspiring environment allowed me to develop a fresh and creative perspective. The practical classes on board, using the ocean as a backdrop, were invaluable. I acquired solid technical skills and a deep understanding of cinematic language, which I am already successfully applying to my projects.
The Diploma in Cinematography at Sea exceeded my expectations. I acquired a solid technical and narrative command of filming in maritime environments, from planning and executing shoots on vessels to managing equipment and specialized post-production. The onboard practical experience was invaluable, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real and challenging situations, resulting in a final short film of which I am very proud.
Frequently asked questions
On the high seas.
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.
On the high seas.
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.
- Introduction to Visual Narrative: Nautical Foundations and Applications
- The Nautical Script: Structure, Characters, Plot, and Conflict
- Cinematic Language: Shots, Angles, and Camera Movements at Sea
- Marine Documentary Narrative: Research, Ethics, and Representation
- Scriptwriting for Nautical Video Games: Interactivity and Narrative Design
- Storyboard Creation: Visualization and Sequence Planning
- Nautical Character Design: Archetypes, Motivations, and Backstory
- Directing Actors in Maritime Contexts: Realism and Verisimilitude
- Audiovisual Post-Production: Editing, Sound, and Marine Special Effects
- Financing and Distribution of Audiovisual Projects nautical
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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.