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
Professional Navigation Software Course
This course provides you with the essential skills to master cutting-edge digital tools in modern navigation. Learn to optimize route planning, interpret critical real-time data, and make informed decisions for safe and efficient…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts30 November
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Professional Navigation Software Course?
The Professional Navigation Software Course
This course provides you with the essential skills to master cutting-edge digital tools in modern navigation. Learn to optimize route planning, interpret critical real-time data, and make informed decisions for safe and efficient navigation. This program will equip you with the practical knowledge needed to excel in demanding maritime environments, improving safety and optimizing performance.
Professional Navigation Software Course
This course provides you with the essential skills to master cutting-edge digital tools in modern navigation. Learn to optimize route planning, interpret critical real-time data, and make informed decisions for safe and efficient navigation.
Key Benefits
- Leading Software Mastery: Gain in-depth knowledge of the most widely used navigation software in the industry.
- Advanced Route Planning: Learn to create optimized routes considering factors such as currents, tides, and geographical constraints.
- Real-Time Data Interpretation: Analyze weather, traffic, and sensor data for informed decision-making.
- Simulations and Case Studies: Apply your knowledge in realistic scenarios for a hands-on and immersive learning experience.
- Professional Certification: Earn a recognized certification that validates your skills and enhances your career prospects.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
08-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Master Navigation: Learn to use the most advanced software tools in the industry.
- Precise Planning: Optimize routes, manage risks, and improve the efficiency of your voyages.
- Maritime Safety: Delve into the use of electronic charts, radar, and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS).
- Realistic Simulations: Practice complex scenarios in a safe and controlled virtual environment.
- Professional Certification: Earn a recognized certification that will boost your career in the maritime industry.
- Prepare to navigate with confidence and safety thanks to our comprehensive program.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of the digital ecosystem of professional browsing, embarked software architecture and safe operation principles
- Evolution of professional navigation software: from basic electronic mapping to integrated bridge environments
- Functional architecture of digital navigation systems: sensors, consoles, servers, databases and communication networks
- Professional navigation software typologies: ECDIS, ECS, defeat planning, Weather Routing and integrated bridge platforms
- Relationship between software, hardware and navigation sensors: GNSS, gyro, AIS, radar, echo sounder, anemometry and slides
- Principles of safe operation in professional nautical software: redundancy, data validation, alarms and error control
02
Electronic mapping, information layer management and operational configuration of ECDIS/ECS environments
- Basics of professional electronic mapping: ENC, RNC, vector layers, symbology and structure of nautical information
- Initial configuration of the cartographic software: security parametres, scales, alarm zones and user profiles
- Management of cartographic updates and notices to navigators: Version control, traceability and operational validation
- Use of layers and data overlay: Bathymetry, traffic, meteorology, restricted zones and navigation aids
- Advanced interpretation of alerts, limits and messages from electronic navigation software: operating logic and prevention of human error
03
Digital defeat planning, travel optimisation and risk management with professional navigation software
- Digital design of routes and defeats: waypoints, legs, safety margins, operational restrictions and acceptance criteria
- Configuration of security parametres for planning: UKC, Cross-Track Error, exclusion zones and manoeuvre limits
- Integration of meteo-oceanographic information in the navigation software: wind, currents, waves, tides and operational routing
- Optimisation of trip through professional software: consumption, estimated times, operational efficiency and risk minimisation
- Simulation and pre-review of defeat: technical validation, conflict detection and preparation of the navigation briefing
04
Integration of navigation software with radar, AIS, GNSS and integrated bridge systems for advanced situational awareness
- Software integration with primary and secondary sensors: data quality, time sync and font consistency
- Management of AIS and radar targets on professional platforms - identification, prioritisation, monitoring and evaluation of collision risk
- Data fusion in integrated bridge systems: tactical navigation, precision navigation and operational decision support
- Configuration of alarms and monitoring thresholds: CPA, TCPA, loss of signal, defeat detours and critical events
- Coordinated use of navigation software in complex manoeuvres: channels, traffic separation, landings and congested areas
05
CapStone Project for configuration, planning, monitoring and operational use of a professional browsing software environment
- Definition of the professional use case: type of ship, mission profile, navigation environment and operating objectives of the system
- Complete configuration of the digital navigation environment: mapping, sensors, alarms, information layers and security profiles
- Preparation of a professional digital defeat: planning, optimisation, technical review and validation prior to execution
- Real-time operation simulation: tracking, traffic management, alert response, and incident control
- System Performance Analysis: Data Reliability, Margin Compliance, Critical Events, and Improvement Opportunities
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
Experienced and recreational sailors looking to optimize planning, tracking, and safety on their voyages.Maritime professionals who need to master advanced tools for electronic navigation, route management, and data analysis.Nautical and Oceanographic students interested in deepening their knowledge of specialized software for research and simulation.Companies in the nautical sector that wan
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
- 01Manage cartographic data accurately
- 02Interpreting weather information to optimize routes
- 03Use advanced navigation tools for informed decision-making
- 04Integrate vessel information for efficient navigation
- 05Apply the software functions to monitor navigation in real time
- 06Optimizing the use of software for maritime safety
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Navigation Software Developer: Creation and maintenance of navigation applications for various devices and platforms.
02Navigation Software Tester: Comprehensive testing to ensure the quality and accuracy of navigation systems.
03Geospatial Data Analyst: Processing and analysis of geographic data to improve the accuracy and functionality of navigation systems.
04Navigation Systems Integration Specialist: Integration of navigation software with other systems and devices, such as sensors and communication systems.
05Navigation Software Consultant: Advising companies and organizations on the implementation and optimization of navigation software solutions.
06Navigation Technology Researcher: Research and development of new technologies and algorithms to improve the accuracy and efficiency of navigation systems.
07Specialized Technical Support for Navigation Software Navigation: Technical support for users and clients with navigation software-related issues.
08Navigation Software Project Manager: Planning and management of navigation software development and implementation projects.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
To provide accurate, real-time information for the safe and efficient planning and execution of navigation routes.
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.
To guide vehicles, vessels or aircraft safely and efficiently to their destinations, optimizing routes and providing real-time information.
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:Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field; or demonstrable professional experience in navigation software development.Technical Skills:Proficiency in relevant programming languages (C++, Python, etc.), operating systems (Linux, Windows), databases (PostgreSQL, etc.), and software development frameworks. Knowledge of digital cartography, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), inertial sensors, and communication protocols (NMEA, etc.).Experience:Experience in the development of maritime, lan
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Frequently Asked Questions
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