Onboard Experience Design Course
Why this course?
The Onboard Experience Design course
This course provides you with the tools and techniques to create unforgettable moments for your passengers. Learn to analyze customer needs, design innovative spaces, and plan engaging activities that exceed their expectations. Master the art of experiential storytelling and service personalization to differentiate yourself in the competitive cruise and ocean travel market.
Differentiating Advantages
- Practical Methodology: Real-world case studies and design exercises applied to different types of vessels.
- Holistic Approach: Integration of interior design, gastronomy, entertainment, and customer service.
- Cutting-Edge Tools: Use of 3D modeling software and customer experience management platforms.
- Professional Networking: Connection with industry experts and collaboration opportunities.
- Certification: Earn a certificate that validates your skills and knowledge in onboard experience design.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Cursos
- Hours: 150 H
- Start date: 25-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Naval interior designers who seek to innovate in habitability, optimizing spaces and creating memorable atmospheres.
- Naval architects and engineers who wish to integrate cutting-edge design solutions with maritime functionality and safety.
- Cruise companies and shipyards interested in differentiating themselves in the market through immersive and personalized experiences for their passengers.
- Equipment and materials suppliers who seek to adapt their products to the demands of interior design for luxury ships and vessels.
- Design and architecture students who aspire to specialize in the maritime sector, learning about the latest trends and technologies.
Flexibility and applicability
Ā The course offers real-world case studies, digital design tools, and networking with experts, adapting to your learning pace.
Objectives and competencies
Creating memorable experiences for passengers:
Anticipating and exceeding passenger expectations with personalized, friendly and efficient service at every point of contact, proactively resolving incidents and creating a safe and pleasant environment.
Optimize crew-passenger interaction:
“Use assertive communication and active listening techniques to understand the needs and expectations of passengers, managing conflict situations with empathy and professionalism.”
Integrating technological innovation into the service:
Implement predictive monitoring and data analysis systems to optimize equipment performance and prevent failures, integrating real-time information into decision-making.
Personalize your entertainment and relaxation offer:
Design differentiated onboard leisure experiences, taking into account passenger profiles and industry trends.
Adapting the design to cultural diversity:
“Consider differences in communication, social norms, and expectations when designing interfaces and content, prioritizing clarity and avoiding cultural biases.”
Maximize passenger comfort and well-being:
To effectively manage weather and sea state information to anticipate and mitigate situations that affect passenger comfort.
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 Travel Architecture: Key Concepts and Historical Evolution
- Sensory Experience Design: Design Principles and Their Application to Travel
- Travel Narrative: Creating Meaningful and Memorable Stories
- Traveler Psychology: Motivations, Expectations, and Needs
- Landscape and Perception: The Impact of the Environment on Sensory Experience
- Culture and Context: The Importance of Authenticity and Cultural Adaptation
- Technology and Sensory Experiences: The Use of Technology to Enrich the Experience
- Creating Sensory Itineraries: Designing Routes and Activities that Stimulate the Senses
- Measuring and Evaluating Experiences: Metrics and Tools for Analyze the impact.
Ethics and Sustainability in Travel Architecture.
‘
- Introduction to Comfort Architecture: History and Evolution
- Ergonomics and Passenger-Centered Design: Anthropometry, Biomechanics, Usability
- Environmental Psychology: Perception, Cognition, Emotion, and Behavior in the Travel Environment
- Lighting and Its Impact on Well-being: Circadian Rhythms, Color Temperature, Glare
- Acoustics and Noise Control: Insulation, Absorption, Masking, and Acoustic Comfort
- Indoor Air Quality: Ventilation, Filtration, Pollutant and Odor Control
- Thermodynamics and Thermal Comfort: Temperature, Humidity, Air Velocity, and Radiation
- Biophilic Design: Connection with Nature, Natural Materials, Views, and Green Spaces
- Universal Accessibility and Design
Inclusive: Considerations for people with reduced mobility, visual and hearing impairments
Passenger experience evaluation: metrics, surveys, observation, and data analysis
‘
- Introduction to Immersive Experiences: Key Concepts and Evolution
- Psychology of Immersion: Perception, Emotion, and Narrative
- Immersive Narrative Design: Creating Engaging Stories and Memorable Characters
- Onboard Immersive Technologies: Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR)
- Planning Immersive Experiences: Objectives, Budget, and Target Audience
- Integrating Physical and Digital Spaces: Designing Scenarios and Interactive Environments
- Interactivity and User Engagement: Game Mechanics, Elements of Surprise, and Personalization
- Managing Immersive Content: Creation, curation, and updating of digital assets.
- Onboard Implementation and Operation: Logistics, safety, and maintenance.
- Evaluation of the Immersive Experience: Success metrics, user feedback, and continuous improvement.
‘
- Introduction to Sensory Design: Basic Concepts and Their Application in Hospitality.
- Color Psychology and Its Impact on the Perception of Maritime Space.
- Acoustics in Marine Environments: Noise Control and Sound Design.
- Lighting and Circadian Rhythms: Lighting Design for Onboard Wellbeing.
- Textures and Materials: Selecting Materials that Evoke the Sea and Its Environment.
- Marine Aromatherapy: Using Aromas to Create Memorable Experiences.
- Ergonomics and Accessible Design in Confined Spaces.
- Biophilic Design: Incorporating Natural Elements in Maritime Design.
- Technological and Sensory Integration: Home Automation and Environmental Control Systems.
- Sustainability and sensory design: Eco-friendly practices in maritime spaces.
‘
- 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 ā diagnosis ā intervention ā verification ā report) applicable to any system.
Plan de estudio - MĆ³dulos
- 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 Travel Architecture: Key Concepts and Historical Evolution
- Sensory Experience Design: Design Principles and Their Application to Travel
- Travel Narrative: Creating Meaningful and Memorable Stories
- Traveler Psychology: Motivations, Expectations, and Needs
- Landscape and Perception: The Impact of the Environment on Sensory Experience
- Culture and Context: The Importance of Authenticity and Cultural Adaptation
- Technology and Sensory Experiences: The Use of Technology to Enrich the Experience
- Creating Sensory Itineraries: Designing Routes and Activities that Stimulate the Senses
- Measuring and Evaluating Experiences: Metrics and Tools for Analyze the impact.
Ethics and Sustainability in Travel Architecture.
‘
- Introduction to Comfort Architecture: History and Evolution
- Ergonomics and Passenger-Centered Design: Anthropometry, Biomechanics, Usability
- Environmental Psychology: Perception, Cognition, Emotion, and Behavior in the Travel Environment
- Lighting and Its Impact on Well-being: Circadian Rhythms, Color Temperature, Glare
- Acoustics and Noise Control: Insulation, Absorption, Masking, and Acoustic Comfort
- Indoor Air Quality: Ventilation, Filtration, Pollutant and Odor Control
- Thermodynamics and Thermal Comfort: Temperature, Humidity, Air Velocity, and Radiation
- Biophilic Design: Connection with Nature, Natural Materials, Views, and Green Spaces
- Universal Accessibility and Design
Inclusive: Considerations for people with reduced mobility, visual and hearing impairments
Passenger experience evaluation: metrics, surveys, observation, and data analysis
‘
- Introduction to Immersive Experiences: Key Concepts and Evolution
- Psychology of Immersion: Perception, Emotion, and Narrative
- Immersive Narrative Design: Creating Engaging Stories and Memorable Characters
- Onboard Immersive Technologies: Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR)
- Planning Immersive Experiences: Objectives, Budget, and Target Audience
- Integrating Physical and Digital Spaces: Designing Scenarios and Interactive Environments
- Interactivity and User Engagement: Game Mechanics, Elements of Surprise, and Personalization
- Managing Immersive Content: Creation, curation, and updating of digital assets.
- Onboard Implementation and Operation: Logistics, safety, and maintenance.
- Evaluation of the Immersive Experience: Success metrics, user feedback, and continuous improvement.
‘
- Introduction to Sensory Design: Basic Concepts and Their Application in Hospitality.
- Color Psychology and Its Impact on the Perception of Maritime Space.
- Acoustics in Marine Environments: Noise Control and Sound Design.
- Lighting and Circadian Rhythms: Lighting Design for Onboard Wellbeing.
- Textures and Materials: Selecting Materials that Evoke the Sea and Its Environment.
- Marine Aromatherapy: Using Aromas to Create Memorable Experiences.
- Ergonomics and Accessible Design in Confined Spaces.
- Biophilic Design: Incorporating Natural Elements in Maritime Design.
- Technological and Sensory Integration: Home Automation and Environmental Control Systems.
- Sustainability and sensory design: Eco-friendly practices in maritime spaces.
‘
- 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 ā diagnosis ā intervention ā verification ā report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Immersive Experiences: Key Concepts and Evolution
- Psychology of Immersion: Presence, Flow, and Narrative
- Experience Design: Sensory Elements, Interactivity, and Personalization
- Immersive Technologies: Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR)
- Immersive Narrative: Storytelling, Gamification, and Character Design
- Onboard Environments: Physical Spaces, Lighting, Sound, and Ambiance
- Interaction and Control: Interfaces, Devices, and Sensors
- Safety and Wellbeing: Ergonomic Considerations, Accessibility, and Motion Sickness Prevention
- Experience Management: Operations, Personnel, Maintenance, and Technical Support
Evaluation and Continuous Improvement: Satisfaction Metrics, Feedback, and Data Analysis
‘
- Introduction to Immersive Journeys: Concept, Evolution, and Types
- Narrative Design: Storytelling, Character Arcs, Worldbuilding
- Game Mechanics: Rule Systems, Chance, Skills, and Progression
- Elements of Interaction: Puzzles, Challenges, Decisions, and Consequences
- Applied Technology: Virtual/Augmented Reality, Wearables, Sensors
- Player Psychology: Motivation, Engagement, Immersion, and Flow
- Space Design: Physical and Virtual Scenarios, Atmosphere
- Character Creation: Roles, Motivations, Backstory, and AI
- Testing and Feedback: Iteration, Balancing, and User Experience
- Ethical and security considerations: privacy, health, and accessibility
‘
- Introduction to Experience Architecture (AX) and its relevance in nautical hospitality.
- User-centered design: Researching the needs and expectations of nautical clients.
- Principles of nautical interior design: Ergonomics, safety, accessibility, and aesthetics.
- Materials and finishes for nautical environments: Strength, durability, sustainability, and comfort.
- Lighting and acoustics in nautical spaces: Creating pleasant and functional environments.
- Integration of technology and automation: Control, entertainment, and communication systems.
- Design of social and relaxation spaces: Lounges, dining rooms, terraces, and spa areas.
- Design of cabins and Cabins: Space optimization, comfort, and privacy.
Nautical landscaping and exterior design: Decks, sun decks, pools, and boarding areas.
Case studies: Analysis of architectural projects based on experience in boats and marinas.
‘
- Passenger Immersion Fundamentals: Traveler Psychology and Expectations.
- Experiential Storytelling:** Creating captivating narratives for different profiles.
- Interactive Activity Design:** Workshops, games, and simulations that engage the passenger.
- Experience Personalization:** Adapting activities to individual interests and preferences.
- Gamification and Rewards:** Implementing point systems and challenges to increase participation.
- Use of Technology:** Augmented reality, virtual reality, and mobile applications for deep immersion.
- Creation of Multisensory Environments:** Using music, aromas, and textures to stimulate the senses.
- Collaboration with Local Artists and Artisans:** Integrating local culture for an authentic experience.
- Impact Measurement:** Evaluating the effectiveness of Immersion strategies through surveys and feedback.
**Ethics in immersion:** Respect for local culture and passenger privacy.
‘
Career opportunities
- Cruise Experience Designer: Creation and planning of entertainment activities, themed events, and onboard programs.
- Onboard Entertainment Manager: Coordination of artist teams, budget management, and supervision of show quality.
- Cruise Hospitality Specialist: Design of personalized passenger services, VIP client relationship management, and problem-solving.
- Cruise Itinerary Planner: Destination research, negotiation with local suppliers, and design of attractive passenger routes.
- Cruise Interior Designer: Creation of attractive and functional onboard spaces, material selection, and decoration supervision.
- Onboard Experience Consultant: Advising cruise lines on industry trends, developing strategies to improve customer satisfaction, and optimizing resources.
- Director of Recreational Activities: Supervision of sports activities, games, and wellness programs for passengers.
- Special Events Coordinator: Organization of weddings, celebrations, and conferences on board; logistics management; and customer service.
“`
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.
5. Induction
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, ā„ 24ā 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
- Cruise UX Design Fundamentals: Master the techniques to create memorable experiences from planning to evaluation.
- Traveler Psychology: Learn to anticipate and meet the emotional needs of passengers at sea.
- Interaction Design in Limited Spaces: Optimize usability and comfort in cabins, common areas, and entertainment venues.
- Onboard Technology and Entertainment: Integrate innovative solutions to deliver personalized and cutting-edge experiences.
- Success Stories and Best Practices: Be inspired by real-world examples of experience design in the cruise industry.
Testimonials
I implemented a new in-flight entertainment system with customized virtual reality for a regional airline. First-quarter results showed a 15% increase in customer satisfaction and an 8% increase in in-flight merchandise sales, exceeding initial expectations and positioning us as leaders in innovation within the industry.
The Marketing, Tourism, and Experiences course provided me with the necessary tools to design and launch a digital marketing campaign that increased bookings for my tourism business by 30% in just two months. I learned how to segment my target audience, create engaging content, and use social media effectively to promote my services.
I successfully designed an onboard experience for a regional airline that increased customer satisfaction by 15% and onboard sales by 12% in the first quarter. We integrated technology, personalized entertainment, and a revamped loyalty program focused on the needs of frequent flyers.
“Thanks to the In-Flight Experience Design course, I was able to implement a new in-flight entertainment system that increased customer satisfaction by 15% and reduced complaints related to boredom on board by 20%. The methodology I learned allowed me to understand the specific needs of our passengers and design tailored solutions that resulted in a more enjoyable and memorable travel experience.”
Frequently asked questions
Create a pleasant, memorable, and positive journey for passengers.
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 create a pleasant, comfortable, and memorable journey for passengers.
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 (3ā6 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.
- Passenger Immersion Fundamentals: Traveler Psychology and Expectations.
- Experiential Storytelling:** Creating captivating narratives for different profiles.
- Interactive Activity Design:** Workshops, games, and simulations that engage the passenger.
- Experience Personalization:** Adapting activities to individual interests and preferences.
- Gamification and Rewards:** Implementing point systems and challenges to increase participation.
- Use of Technology:** Augmented reality, virtual reality, and mobile applications for deep immersion.
- Creation of Multisensory Environments:** Using music, aromas, and textures to stimulate the senses.
- Collaboration with Local Artists and Artisans:** Integrating local culture for an authentic experience.
- Impact Measurement:** Evaluating the effectiveness of Immersion strategies through surveys and feedback.
**Ethics in immersion:** Respect for local culture and passenger privacy.
‘
Request information
- Complete the Application Form
- Attach your CV/Qualifications (if you have them to hand).
- Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you want the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
Teachers
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
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.