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
Maritime Excursion Guide Course
This course prepares you to design and lead unforgettable experiences at sea. Learn to select safe and attractive routes, master coastal navigation and group management techniques, and discover how to interpret the marine…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts28 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Maritime Excursion Guide Course?
This course prepares you to design and lead unforgettable experiences at sea. Learn to select safe and attractive routes, master coastal navigation and group management techniques, and discover how to interpret the marine environment to enrich every voyage. This course gives you the tools to turn your passion for the sea into an exciting profession.
Differential Advantages
- Expert Planning: Route design adapted to different levels and weather conditions.
- Maritime Safety: Emergency protocols, first aid at sea, and risk management.
- Environmental Interpretation: Identification of marine flora and fauna, and effective communication with participants.
- Leadership Skills: Group management, conflict resolution, and participant motivation.
- Legal Framework: Maritime regulations, insurance, and permits required to operate excursions.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
09-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Safe Navigation: Learn to plan and execute maritime excursions safely, minimizing risks and maximizing enjoyment.
- Environmental Awareness: Identify coastal flora, fauna, and geographical features to enrich your clients' experience.
- Maritime Law: Master current regulations and standards to operate legally and protect the marine environment.
- Customer Service: Develop communication and group management skills to provide exceptional service to excursionists.
- Marine First Aid: Acquire basic rescue and first aid knowledge specific to emergency situations at sea.
- Become an expert and certified guide to offer unforgettable maritime experiences.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of the guide of sea excursions and typologies of experiences
- Professional profile of the guide: Technical, communicative skills and ethical conduct in nautical environments
- Typologies of excursions: sighting, coastal routes, snorkeling, cultural-patrimonial, expedition and premium experiences
- Architecture of the experience: objectives, narrative, rhythm, “moments of truth” and memorable closure
- Pre-customer briefing: expectations, standards, operating limits, inclusion and verification of understanding
- Environmental and cultural interpretation: interpretive script, evidence-based storytelling and audience adaptation
02
Marine itinerary planning, environment reading and tour preparation
- Route planning: distances, times, sections, points of interest and operational alternatives (Plan B/C)
- Meteorological and oceanographic conditions: wind, waves, currents, tides and criteria GO/NO-GO
- Anchoring/Mooring zone selection: shelter, depth, bottom type, rotation and environmental compatibility
- Logistics management - schedules, boarding/unloading, capacity, capacity, materials and critical resources
- Coordination with port/marine and suppliers: permits, slots, transportation, complementary activities and quality SLAs
03
On-board communication, group management and interpretation dynamics in multicultural environments
- Moving clear communication: voice, rhythm, message security and closed loop confirmation when applicable
- Group Management: Visible Leadership, Flow Control, Counting, Lagging Prevention and Soft Discipline
- Real-time interpretation: reading of the environment, adaptation of the script and connection to the customer experience
- Handling of questions and objections: response techniques, limits, verification of information and credibility
- Multicultural and language communication: simplification, standard phrases, cultural sensitivity and shared norms
04
Passenger safety and risk management in sea excursions - prevention, protocols and emergencies
- Passenger safety: boarding/unloading, on-board mobility, fall prevention and space management
- Risk assessment by activity: Sighting, Bathing/Snorkel, Coastal navigation, Anchoring and transfers
- Safety and conduct briefing: vests, permitted areas, sun exposure, dizziness and operating rules
- Response to Frequent Incidents: Kinetosis, Hypothermia/Hyperthermia, Mild Blows and Anxiety in the Water
- Basic Emergencies: Man to Water (support), Coordination with Chain of Command and Communication with Authorities
05
Quality of service, basic marketing and final design of sea excursion
- Quality and experience standards: NPS/CSAT, service consistency and friction control
- Complaints and Reputation Management: Professional Response, Service Recovery and Crisis Prevention
- Pricing and Packaging: Inclusions, Exclusions, Policies, Basic Profitability and Minimum Occupation
- Sales and Partner Channels: Direct Sales, Agencies, Hotels, Marinas and Operating Agreements
- Excursion control panel: Operational, commercial KPIs, security and sustainability with periodic reporting
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
Tour guides and sociocultural facilitators who wish to expand their offerings with safe and enriching nautical experiences.Tourism sector entrepreneurs who seek to differentiate their services and attract an audience interested in maritime heritage.Leisure activity leaders and environmental educators who want to incorporate activities at sea into their educational programs.Recreational boat
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
- 01To interpret and effectively communicate local marine flora and fauna
- 02Managing emergencies and applying first aid in maritime environments
- 03Navigate vessels safely and responsibly, respecting maritime and environmental regulations
- 04To offer enriching and memorable maritime excursion experiences, tailored to the needs and expectations of our clients
- 05Mastering effective communication techniques to interact with diverse groups and improve the customer experience
- 06Perform basic maintenance on boats and navigation equipment
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Maritime Tourism Guide: Leading groups on boats, interpreting coastal natural and cultural heritage.
02Nautical Activities Instructor: Instructor of kayaking, paddle surfing, snorkeling, and other recreational activities at sea.
03Socio-cultural Facilitator in Marine Environments: Designing and implementing recreational and educational activities related to the sea and navigation.
04Tourist Information Officer specializing in maritime routes: Advising tourists on excursion options, points of interest, and tourist services related to the sea.
05Sustainable Tourism Promoter in Coastal Areas: Developing initiatives for the conservation of the marine environment and promoting responsible tourism.
06Travel Agent specializing in nautical tourism: Designing and marketing tour packages that include maritime excursions and other activities Nautical activities.
07Marine Environmental Educator: Conducting workshops and educational activities on the importance of marine ecosystem conservation.
08Marine Ecotourism Project Manager: Coordinating and developing projects that combine environmental conservation with tourism.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Sea excursions.
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.
Sea
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:Recognized tour guide qualification, specific training in maritime or nautical activities; Demonstrable experience in navigation, marine environmental interpretation, and customer service in maritime environments.Specific Competencies:Solid knowledge of local marine fauna, flora, and ecosystems.Effective communication and group facilitation skills.Risk management and first aid skills in aquatic environments.Documentation:Updated CV, copy of qualifications or training certificates, ID/Passport, certificate of physical fitness for maritime activities.
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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