Small Port Operations Management Course
Why this course?
The Small Port Operations Management course
Provides you with the essential tools and knowledge to optimize the efficiency and profitability of these maritime enclaves. Learn to manage the unique challenges of smaller ports, from managing limited resources to attracting new business opportunities. This program prepares you to lead successfully in a dynamic and competitive port environment.
Differentiating Advantages
- Optimization Strategies: Learn to maximize the use of existing infrastructure and available resources.
- Business Development: Discover how to identify and capitalize on new cargo and service opportunities.
- Supply Chain Management: Master best practices for integrating your port into the global logistics chain.
- Regulatory and Environmental Framework: Understand applicable regulations and how to implement sustainable practices.
- Real-World Case Studies: Analyze examples of success and failure in the management of small ports around the world.
Who is it aimed at?
- Port managers and operations personnel in smaller ports seeking to optimize the efficiency, safety, and profitability of their facilities.
- Entrepreneurs and consultants interested in developing or improving business plans and management strategies for small ports.
- Local and regional authorities responsible for the planning and development of port infrastructure in coastal communities.
- Port service providers (stevedoring, tugboats, etc.) who wish to better understand the specific needs and challenges of small ports.
- Students and professionals in the maritime sector seeking specialized training in small-scale port operations management.
Flexibility and Applicability
Adapted for professionals with busy schedules: asynchronous modules accessible 24/7, relevant case studies, and immediately applicable management tools.
Objectives and competencies
Optimize efficiency in goods handling:
Implement optimized picking and packing strategies, minimizing movement and downtime, using warehouse management software (WMS) and appropriate handling equipment.
Implement port security and protection strategies:
“Conduct comprehensive security risk assessments (ISPS) and develop port security plans (PPP) that mitigate vulnerabilities and comply with national and international regulations.”
Efficiently coordinate the docking and undocking of vessels:
Manage effective communication with tugboats, shore personnel and port authorities, optimizing times and ensuring safety in every maneuver.
To effectively manage the port's human and material resources:
Implement preventive and corrective maintenance plans, optimizing costs and ensuring the availability of key equipment.
Ensuring regulatory and environmental compliance in port operations:
Implement and maintain a certified environmental management system, auditing its compliance and adapting it to current legislation and best practices in the sector.
Develop and maintain port infrastructure in optimal condition:
“Manage preventive and corrective maintenance, prioritizing safety and operational efficiency.”
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 port operations in smaller ports: roles, responsibilities, and legal framework.
- Types of vessels operating in smaller ports: characteristics, drafts, and requirements.
- Basic port infrastructure: docks, berths, fenders, maritime signaling.
- Cargo handling equipment: cranes, forklifts, conveyor belts, etc.
- Stowage and unstowage: basic principles, cargo security, documentation.
- Storage: types of warehouses, stock management, safety, and risk prevention.
- Loading and unloading operations: procedures, communication, coordination.
- Waste management and environmental protection in the port environment.
- Occupational health and safety in port operations: Risks, prevention, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Port emergency plan: procedures for responding to incidents and accidents.
‘
- Port Legal and Regulatory Framework: National and international legislation applicable to smaller ports.
- Port Infrastructure in Smaller Ports: Types of docks, basins, esplanades, and equipment.
- Cargo Handling Equipment: Cranes, forklifts, conveyor belts, and other equipment.
- Loading and Unloading Operations: Procedures, techniques, and best practices.
- Storage and Stowage: Types of storage, safe and efficient stowage techniques.
- Port Security: Security protocols, occupational risk prevention, and emergency plans.
- Maritime Security: ISPS, access control, surveillance, and facility security.
- Port Environmental Management: Environmental impact of port operations and mitigation measures.
- Operations Coordination: Communication, planning, and coordination among the different port stakeholders.
- Process Optimization: Continuous improvement, performance indicators, and operational efficiency.
‘
- Introduction to Port Operations: Types of Ports and Terminals
- Operations Planning and Scheduling: Resource Optimization
- Cargo Handling Equipment: Cranes, Reach Stackers, Conveyor Belts
- Receiving and Delivering Goods: Procedures and Documentation
- Storage and Distribution: Inventory Management, Cross-Docking
- Port Security: ISPS Regulations, Occupational Risk Prevention
- Access Control and Surveillance: Security and Personnel Systems
- Waste and Environmental Management: Regulations and Best Practices
- Information Technologies: Port Management Systems (PMS)
- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Measuring efficiency and productivity.
‘
- Introduction to port operations in smaller ports: characteristics and challenges.
- Port regulations: national and international legislation applicable to smaller ports.
- Port security: contingency plans, access control, and facility protection.
- Port equipment: types, maintenance, and selection criteria.
- Berthing and unberthing maneuvers: procedures, communication, and safety.
- Cargo management: types of cargo, stowage, handling, and storage in smaller ports.
- Loading and unloading operations: equipment, techniques, and safety.
- Waste management: classification, treatment, and disposal in the port environment.
- First aid and emergency response Emergencies: Basic protocols and equipment.
Effective communication: Radio, signals, and port terminology.
‘
- 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.
Plan de estudio - Módulos
- 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 port operations in smaller ports: roles, responsibilities, and legal framework.
- Types of vessels operating in smaller ports: characteristics, drafts, and requirements.
- Basic port infrastructure: docks, berths, fenders, maritime signaling.
- Cargo handling equipment: cranes, forklifts, conveyor belts, etc.
- Stowage and unstowage: basic principles, cargo security, documentation.
- Storage: types of warehouses, stock management, safety, and risk prevention.
- Loading and unloading operations: procedures, communication, coordination.
- Waste management and environmental protection in the port environment.
- Occupational health and safety in port operations: Risks, prevention, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Port emergency plan: procedures for responding to incidents and accidents.
‘
- Port Legal and Regulatory Framework: National and international legislation applicable to smaller ports.
- Port Infrastructure in Smaller Ports: Types of docks, basins, esplanades, and equipment.
- Cargo Handling Equipment: Cranes, forklifts, conveyor belts, and other equipment.
- Loading and Unloading Operations: Procedures, techniques, and best practices.
- Storage and Stowage: Types of storage, safe and efficient stowage techniques.
- Port Security: Security protocols, occupational risk prevention, and emergency plans.
- Maritime Security: ISPS, access control, surveillance, and facility security.
- Port Environmental Management: Environmental impact of port operations and mitigation measures.
- Operations Coordination: Communication, planning, and coordination among the different port stakeholders.
- Process Optimization: Continuous improvement, performance indicators, and operational efficiency.
‘
- Introduction to Port Operations: Types of Ports and Terminals
- Operations Planning and Scheduling: Resource Optimization
- Cargo Handling Equipment: Cranes, Reach Stackers, Conveyor Belts
- Receiving and Delivering Goods: Procedures and Documentation
- Storage and Distribution: Inventory Management, Cross-Docking
- Port Security: ISPS Regulations, Occupational Risk Prevention
- Access Control and Surveillance: Security and Personnel Systems
- Waste and Environmental Management: Regulations and Best Practices
- Information Technologies: Port Management Systems (PMS)
- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Measuring efficiency and productivity.
‘
- Introduction to port operations in smaller ports: characteristics and challenges.
- Port regulations: national and international legislation applicable to smaller ports.
- Port security: contingency plans, access control, and facility protection.
- Port equipment: types, maintenance, and selection criteria.
- Berthing and unberthing maneuvers: procedures, communication, and safety.
- Cargo management: types of cargo, stowage, handling, and storage in smaller ports.
- Loading and unloading operations: equipment, techniques, and safety.
- Waste management: classification, treatment, and disposal in the port environment.
- First aid and emergency response Emergencies: Basic protocols and equipment.
Effective communication: Radio, signals, and port terminology.
‘
- 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.
- Legal and regulatory framework of smaller ports: Ports Law, regulations.
- Port strategic planning: SWOT analysis, objectives and goals.
- Feasibility study of port projects: costs, benefits, environmental impact.
- Design and optimization of port infrastructure: docks, basins, access points.
- Port equipment: cranes, vehicles, mooring and safety systems.
- Management of port spaces: storage, transit, service areas.
- Maritime security in smaller ports: emergency plans, access control.
- Protection of the marine environment: waste management, spill prevention.
- Coordination of port operations: communication, maritime traffic control.
- Safety drills and exercises: evaluation and continuous improvement.
‘
- Introduction to Port Operations: Definitions, types of smaller ports, and their functions.
- Legal and Regulatory Framework: National and international port legislation applicable to smaller ports.
- Operations Planning: Development of loading and unloading plans, stowage, and dock space management.
- Port Equipment: Types of cranes, internal transport vehicles, and other equipment used in smaller ports.
- Safety in Cargo Handling: Safe procedures for lifting, transporting, and storing goods.
- Waste Management: Waste management plans for waste generated by port activities, including hazardous waste.
- Occupational Health and Safety: Identification of occupational hazards, preventive measures, and personal protective equipment.
- Protection of the marine environment: Measures to prevent pollution from hydrocarbons, spills, and other substances.
- Emergency plans: Development and implementation of emergency plans for risk situations (fires, spills, etc.).
- Communication and coordination: Communication protocols between port personnel, vessels, and maritime authorities.
‘
- Introduction to port operations in smaller ports: characteristics and challenges.
- Legal and regulatory framework: port legislation, international agreements, local regulations.
- Port infrastructure: docks, berths, basins, storage areas, land and sea access.
- Port equipment: cranes, forklifts, lifting systems, tugboats, support vessels.
- Operational planning: vessel scheduling, resource allocation, space management.
- Loading and unloading: techniques, cargo handling safety, cargo types.
- Waste management: collection, treatment, and disposal of waste generated by ships and port activities.
- Port security: access control, surveillance, fire prevention, emergency plans.
- Maritime security: ISPS measures, passenger and crew control, prevention of illicit acts.
- Coordination and communication: roles and responsibilities of the different port stakeholders, communication channels.
‘
- Introduction to Port Operations: Stakeholders, Processes, and Regulations
- Safety in Port Operations: Risks, Prevention, and Control
- Human Resource Optimization: Planning, Management, and Training
- Port Equipment: Types, Maintenance, and Efficiency
- Supply Chain Management: Transportation, Storage, and Distribution
- Technologies for Optimization: Management Systems, Automation, and Digitalization
- Port Legislation: National and International, Compliance, and Sanctions
- Environmental Management in Ports: Sustainability, Emissions and Waste Control
- Port Contingency and Emergency Plans: Protocols, Drills, and Response
- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Measurement, Analysis, and Improvement continued.
‘
Career opportunities
- Port Operations Manager: Planning and coordination of port activities.
- Logistics Manager: Optimization of the supply chain and management of goods.
- Port Security Technician: Implementation of security measures and risk control.
- Customs Agent: Processing of documentation and compliance with customs regulations.
- Stowage and Unstowage Supervisor: Control of ship loading and unloading operations.
- Port Crane Operator: Operation of machinery for handling containers and cargo.
- Port Administrator: Document management and customer service in the port environment.
- Entrepreneur: Creation of Port service companies or related activities.
“`
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, ≥ 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
- Resource Optimization: Learn to maximize efficiency in small-scale port operations, reducing costs and improving productivity.
- Management Strategies: Master the key techniques for planning, organizing, and controlling port activities, adapted to the specific characteristics of small ports.
- Legal and Regulatory Framework: Understand current legislation and regulatory requirements applicable to port management, ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties.
- Safety and Security: Implement effective measures to protect port infrastructure, prevent occupational hazards, and guarantee the safety of operations.
- Case Studies: Analyze real-world examples and participate in simulations to apply acquired knowledge and develop decision-making skills in various situations. complex.
Testimonials
I implemented an inventory management system at the port of Malpica, reducing ship waiting times by 30% and increasing loading/unloading efficiency by 25% in the first quarter. This resulted in a 15% increase in the volume of goods handled.
During the Transportation and Logistics course, I gained in-depth knowledge of supply chain management, from procurement to distribution. I applied this knowledge in my final project, designing an optimized distribution network for a fictitious company, which resulted in a theoretical 15% reduction in logistics costs. This experience led to an internship at a leading company in the sector, where I am currently applying and expanding my skills.
I implemented an RFID-based inventory management system at the port of El Tamarindo, reducing vessel waiting times by 30% and increasing cargo handling capacity by 25% in the first quarter.
I implemented an inventory management system at the port of El Sauzal, which reduced ship waiting times by 30% and increased cargo unloading efficiency by 15%. This resulted in a significant increase in port profitability and customer satisfaction.
Frequently asked questions
Optimize the use of port resources and infrastructure to facilitate maritime trade in an efficient, safe and sustainable manner.
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.
Limited resources (financial, infrastructure, personnel).
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 Port Operations: Stakeholders, Processes, and Regulations
- Safety in Port Operations: Risks, Prevention, and Control
- Human Resource Optimization: Planning, Management, and Training
- Port Equipment: Types, Maintenance, and Efficiency
- Supply Chain Management: Transportation, Storage, and Distribution
- Technologies for Optimization: Management Systems, Automation, and Digitalization
- Port Legislation: National and International, Compliance, and Sanctions
- Environmental Management in Ports: Sustainability, Emissions and Waste Control
- Port Contingency and Emergency Plans: Protocols, Drills, and Response
- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Measurement, Analysis, and Improvement continued.
‘
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. 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.