Master’s degree1,500 h · Online · 11 modules

Master's in Naval Heritage and Historic Ship Restoration

This master's offers an in-depth look at the conservation and recovery of vessels of historical value. You will learn advanced techniques to diagnose damage, select compatible materials and apply restoration methods that respect authenticity, and you will be prepared to manage museum display and rehabilitation projects that help preserve the maritime legacy.

Duration1,500 h

ModeOnline

Start1 December

Modules11

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About the program

What is the Master's in Naval Heritage and Historic Ship Restoration?

This master's covers the restoration of a historic ship from first survey to long-term care. You will study non-destructive testing (ultrasound, thermography, digital radiography, acoustic emission, eddy currents), 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry; finite element modeling of hulls and superstructures; the characterization of historic woods, steels, copper and alloys with SEM, XRD and Raman spectroscopy; cleaning, stabilization, consolidation, protective coatings and reversible treatments; restoration project management, risk assessment, quality control and BIM for naval heritage; digital documentation, GIS and AI-based damage detection; the restoration of historic marine machinery; and traditional boatbuilding trades, rigging, caulking and the maintenance of historic fleets.

What sets this master's apart: it treats a historic ship as both a cultural object and a working structure, so every intervention is judged by authenticity, reversibility and structural safety at the same time; it brings conservation science, naval engineering and traditional shipwright skills into a single method; it covers engines and machinery as well as hulls; and it closes with a Final Project in which you develop a master restoration plan for a historically significant vessel.

Program typeMaster’s degree

ModeOnline

Duration1,500 hours

Modules11

Start1 December

Program highlights

Non-destructive diagnosis: ultrasound, thermography, radiography, acoustic emission and smart sensor monitoring.
Digital documentation: 3D laser scanning, photogrammetry, FEM analysis, BIM for naval heritage and GIS.
Materials conservation: historic woods, steels and copper alloys, cleaning, consolidation and coatings.
Project management: feasibility, risk assessment, quality control, traceability and interdisciplinary teams.
Historic machinery: NDT of engines, corrosion and fatigue, controlled dismantling and reversible repair.
Traditional trades: wooden construction, caulking, rigging and sails, and maintenance plans for historic fleets.

Syllabus

Syllabus of the Master's in Naval Heritage and Historic Ship Restoration

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Advanced technologies for the diagnosis and structural conservation of historic ships

1.1. Scientific and technical foundations of non-destructive testing (NDT) applied to historic naval structures: ultrasound, thermography, digital radiography and vibration analysis
1.2. Advanced structural inspection methods: 3D scanning, photogrammetric modeling and laser scanning for accurate dimensional assessment
1.3. Smart sensor technologies (wireless sensor networks, piezoelectric sensors) for real-time monitoring of structural integrity and early detection of corrosion and fatigue
1.4. Computer-aided structural engineering (CAE) and finite element analysis (FEA) to predict mechanical behavior and maximize the conservation of hull and superstructure
1.5. Diagnosis and assessment of microstructural deterioration in metal alloys and traditional woods: electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and impedance spectroscopy
1.6. Advanced protocols for restoring and consolidating original materials, including eco-friendly biocides, corrosion inhibition treatments and polymer consolidants compatible with historic materials
1.7. Preventive conservation systems based on controlled microclimates and environmental enclosures to halt damage and extend the life of ships
1.8. Augmented reality and virtual modeling to plan and visualize complex restoration work on historic ships
1.9. International rules and best practice in structural conservation: ICOMOS and UNESCO recommendations and ISO standards applied to heritage ships
1.10. Relevant case studies: critical analysis of notable international restoration projects and their technical and heritage results

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 2

Integrated techniques for the restoration and preservation of naval materials in heritage ships

2.1. Foundations of historic naval materials: composition, mechanical properties and deterioration in marine environments
2.2. Advanced diagnosis of material pathologies: non-destructive techniques, ultrasonic testing, thermography and chemical analysis
2.3. Integrated structural assessment: stress analysis, electrochemical corrosion and bimetallic degradation in combined materials
2.4. Cleaning and stabilization protocols: mechanical, chemical and electrochemical methods for metals, woods and traditional composites
2.5. Consolidation and reinforcement techniques: epoxy resins, mineral consolidants and natural fibers in ship restoration
2.6. Methods for reversible treatments: technical criteria and international rules for conservation work
2.7. Protective coatings: anticorrosive layers, marine varnishes and latest-generation hydrophobic treatments
2.8. Integrating digital technologies: 3D scanning, CAD modeling and real-time structural monitoring for preservation
2.9. Integrated management of the restoration project: planning, photogrammetric documentation, schedules and quality control
2.10. International rules and standards for the conservation of naval heritage: ICOMOS, UNESCO and specific guidelines for historic ships

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 3

Technological innovation and advanced techniques in the diagnosis and conservation of historic naval structures

3.1. Foundations of technological innovation in ship restoration: historical evolution, current trends and future prospects in the conservation of historic ships
3.2. Advanced diagnosis of naval structures: non-destructive testing, ultrasound, digital radiography and infrared thermography applied to metal and timber
3.3. 3D modeling and laser scanning: accurate capture of structural and morphological condition for digital documentation, analysis and planning of interventions
3.4. Preventive and remedial conservation methods: assessment and mitigation of structural pathologies, corrosion, biodeterioration and environmental degradation
3.5. Smart continuous monitoring systems: embedded sensors, IoT and data analysis to anticipate failures and optimize the maintenance of heritage vessels
3.6. Innovative materials in restoration: composites, light alloys and advanced coatings that respect historical integrity and ensure durability
3.7. Specialized software for managing and planning ship restoration projects: BIM for maritime heritage and dedicated CAD/CAM tools
3.8. Advanced structural reconstruction techniques: precision welding, reinforcement and structural adaptations compatible with authenticity and reversibility
3.9. Applicable international protocols and technical rules: UNESCO, ICOMOS, the Hague Convention and advisory guidance on maritime naval heritage
3.10. Case studies and analysis of notable projects: critical review of successful technology applications and lessons for future work on historic ships

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 4

Strategic management of ship restoration projects: planning, risk assessment and quality control for historic ships

4.1. Foundations of strategic management applied to ship restoration: objectives, scope and alignment with heritage conservation
4.2. Advanced planning methods: technical and economic feasibility analysis in historic ship recovery projects
4.3. Thorough risk assessment: identification, analysis and prioritization of structural, environmental and operational risks during restoration
4.4. Design and implementation of risk mitigation plans: specific protocols to preserve original materials and keep impacts reversible
4.5. Quality control in ship restoration: international standards, applicable ISO rules and acceptance criteria for specialized work
4.6. Technical documentation management: records of interventions, traceability of materials and document control in line with heritage law
4.7. Interdisciplinary coordination: bringing together nautical archaeologists, engineers, naval architects and conservators for technical and artistic coherence
4.8. Advanced technologies for project tracking: BIM (building information modeling) adapted to ship restoration
4.9. Continuous evaluation and technical audits: protocols to ensure compliance in every phase of the project and protect historical integrity
4.10. Resource and logistics management: planning of specific supplies, machinery and specialized staff for ship restoration

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 5

Advanced methods for the documentation, analysis and digital conservation of historic ships and their naval heritage

5.1. Foundations and principles of digital documentation for naval heritage: international standards, rules and cataloging protocols
5.2. 3D capture technologies: advanced photogrammetry, 3D laser scanning and remote sensing applied to historic ships
5.3. Digital processing and modeling: specialized software for the geometric reconstruction and faithful texturing of hulls and naval structures
5.4. Geographic information systems (GIS) for the spatial and temporal management of underwater and land-based naval heritage
5.5. Hybrid methods for structural analysis: combining digital information with physical data from inspection and sensors
5.6. Advanced material analysis: chemical, mechanical and microstructural characterization of historic woods, metals and composites
5.7. Digital life cycle management of historic ships: from initial documentation to tracking of interventions and preventive maintenance
5.8. Artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect deterioration and predict pathologies in heritage naval structures
5.9. Digital preservation protocols: standards for digital preservation, authenticity and long-term access to archives and heritage databases
5.10. Virtual environments and augmented reality for outreach, awareness and training on historic naval heritage

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 6

Innovative technologies and advanced techniques in the diagnosis, conservation and management of historic naval structures

6.1. Foundations of historic shipbuilding materials: wood, steel, copper and traditional alloys
6.2. Advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) technologies: ultrasound, infrared thermography, magnetic resonance analysis and digital radiography
6.3. Structural modeling and simulation of historic ships with the finite element method (FEM): stress assessment and dynamic behavior
6.4. 3D photogrammetry and laser scanning for the accurate reconstruction and documentation of deteriorated structures
6.5. Innovation in preventive and remedial conservation: consolidation of organic materials, cathodic protection and environmental control against corrosion
6.6. Advanced restoration methods: reversibility and material compatibility techniques and minimal intervention criteria
6.7. Integrated management of ship restoration projects: strategic planning, schedules, resource management and quality control
6.8. Real-time digital monitoring systems: smart sensors for early detection of deformation, moisture and aggressive microorganisms
6.9. International rules and technical standards for naval heritage conservation: UNESCO, ICOMOS and specific national codes
6.10. Practical cases and analysis of notable ship restoration projects: detailed study of procedures, technical challenges and results

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 7

Leading-edge technologies for the diagnosis, structural conservation and digital documentation of heritage ships

7.1. Advanced foundations of non-destructive testing applied to historic ships: ultrasound, infrared thermography, acoustic emission and eddy currents
7.2. Computational structural modeling for predictive integrity analysis: finite element methods (FEM) and multiphysics simulations of hull and superstructure
7.3. 3D laser scanning and digital photogrammetry to build accurate, detailed models of heritage ships
7.4. Innovative structural conservation techniques: nanotechnology in anticorrosive treatment, wood consolidation and resins specific to ship restoration
7.5. BIM (building information modeling) adapted to naval heritage for multidisciplinary integration in restoration projects
7.6. Digital documentation protocols: capture, management, secure storage and traceability of information with GIS and specialized databases
7.7. Digital image correlation (DIC) methods for on-site tracking of structural deformation and stress during restoration
7.8. Drones and remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) for inspection and monitoring in inaccessible or high-risk settings
7.9. Advanced chemical and microstructural analysis: Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) applied to historic shipbuilding materials
7.10. International rules and technical standards for the conservation and restoration of naval heritage, including ICOMOS and UNESCO guidelines and specific ISO standards

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 8

Advanced non-destructive evaluation and integrated restoration of historic marine machinery

8.1. Foundations of non-destructive evaluation techniques applied to historic marine machinery: physical principles, scope and limitations
8.2. Ultrasound: ultrasonic inspection methods, equipment calibration and detection of surface and volumetric defects in metal components
8.3. Infrared thermography: thermal analysis to identify anomalies in propulsion systems and auxiliary machinery without direct contact
8.4. Liquid penetrant and magnetic particle testing: procedures to detect cracks and fissures in ferrous and non-ferrous materials
8.5. Advanced visual inspection: videoscopes, endoscopes and microscopy to assess the internal condition of engines and complex systems
8.6. Metrology applied to restoration: dimensional measurement techniques to monitor degradation and fit original parts
8.7. Corrosion and fatigue in historic machinery: mechanisms, diagnosis and mitigation strategies that do not compromise authenticity
8.8. Integrated protocol for the preventive conservation and functional restoration of marine machinery: documentation, material analysis and intervention schedule
8.9. Restoration methods: controlled dismantling, structural repair, reversible substitution of parts and reinstallation in line with museum criteria
8.10. Interdisciplinary integration: collaboration among naval engineers, conservators and restoration technicians to ensure historical fidelity and operational function

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 9

Innovative technologies and advanced techniques in the diagnosis, conservation and restoration of historic naval structures

9.1. Foundations of structural assessment in historic ships: non-destructive testing, ultrasonic techniques, infrared thermography and X-ray analysis for accurate diagnosis
9.2. Advances in 3D scanning and photogrammetry for detailed digital documentation of naval heritage, including BIM modeling of old naval structures
9.3. Original and modern materials: physical and chemical characterization of historic woods, steels and alloys with spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to select conservation techniques
9.4. Advanced structural consolidation methods: epoxy resins, special alloys and micro-injection techniques for restoration without altering historical integrity
9.5. Nanotechnology for protecting naval surfaces: antimicrobial agents, corrosion inhibitors and smart coatings for durability in aggressive marine environments
9.6. Continuous environmental diagnosis and monitoring: smart sensors to control humidity, temperature, salinity and vibrations that affect the stability of a historic ship
9.7. Repair and reconstruction of structural elements with reversibility and minimal intervention, using reverse engineering and advanced prototyping to replicate original parts
9.8. International rules and standards applied to maritime restoration: authenticity, integrity and compatibility criteria according to UNESCO, ICOMOS and IMO rules
9.9. Digital tools for planning and tracking restoration projects: specialized software to control time, resources, risks and quality in complex interventions
9.10. Advanced case studies: detailed analysis of notable historic ship restorations worldwide, assessing technical and methodological results and heritage sustainability

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 10

Traditional boatbuilding, heritage trades and management of historic fleets

10.1. Wooden construction techniques
10.2. Selection and treatment of timber
10.3. Caulking and watertightness
10.4. Traditional rigging, sails and standing rigging
10.5. Blacksmithing and metal fittings
10.6. Passing on traditional trades
10.7. Sailing historic ships and safety
10.8. Rules for historic ships
10.9. Associations and heritage fleets
10.10. Maintenance plan for a historic ship

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 11

Final Project

11.1. Advanced research on 3D scanning and photogrammetry for accurate documentation of the structural condition of historic ships
11.2. Use of composite materials and nanotechnology in restoring deteriorated elements while respecting original integrity
11.3. Digital modeling and structural simulation with specialized software to predict behavior under environmental and operational loads
11.4. Real-time monitoring systems based on IoT sensors for preventive conservation and dynamic assessment
11.5. Integrated multidisciplinary strategies: coordination among naval historians, naval engineers, conservators and architects for coherent, sustainable interventions
11.6. International rules and specific protocols for work on naval heritage: detailed analysis of UNESCO, ICOMOS and MARPOL conventions applied to restoration
11.7. Critical analysis of notable ship restoration cases worldwide, identifying good practice and lessons learned in complex interventions
11.8. Developing master restoration plans: diagnosis, intervention, restoration and long-term maintenance phases
11.9. Augmented and virtual reality for planning, training and documenting restoration projects
11.10. Advanced technical writing of the Final Project: scientific method, presentation of results, critical analysis and innovative proposals for naval preservation

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in Naval Heritage and Historic Ship Restoration

It is 1,500 hours. Tell us how many you can study each week and we will tell you when you will really finish.

Hours per week

4 h30 h

With 12 h per week

months to finish

125 weeks

weeks in total

This is the pace at which most students finish. It fits well with the installment plan.

Faculty

Academic leadership and faculty

The Navalis teaching team: working professionals who teach and supervise the programs.

Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic Director and Head of Quality Assurance

Eng. Diego CifuentesSenior Lecturer in Naval Welding and Non-Destructive Testing; Head of QA/QC for Welded Joints

Capt. Javier Abaroa (MCA)Senior Lecturer in Ship Handling, Electronic Navigation (ECDIS/Radar/ARPA) and GMDSS; STCW Compliance and Bridge Resource Management Coordinator

Dr. Pau FerrerSenior Lecturer in Naval Architecture and Simulation; Director of the Hydrodynamics and CFD Laboratory

Dr. Nuria LlobregatSenior Lecturer in Marine Meteorology, SAR and Operational Safety; Navigation Risk Management Coordinator

Eng. Javier BañulsSenior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering, Automation and ETO Engineering; Electronic Integration and Engine Alarms Coordinator

Eng. Sofía MarquinaSenior Lecturer in Materials, Composites and Corrosion Protection; Coordinator of the Advanced Paints and Coatings Line

Eng. Tomás RieraSenior Lecturer in Propulsion, Alternative Energy and Hybrid Systems; Energy Performance and Vibration Coordinator

Objectives

Objectives of the Master's in Naval Heritage and Historic Ship Restoration

01Direct integrated conservation projects for naval heritage, managing multidisciplinary teams of conservators, engineers and historians to ensure the technical, historical and financial feasibility of each project.

02Assess and diagnose the condition of historic ships, identifying structural and material pathologies through visual inspection, non-destructive testing and documentary analysis.

03Apply advanced restoration techniques to deteriorated naval elements, using innovative materials, respecting historical authenticity and documenting every phase of the process.

04Manage and communicate the historical and cultural value of naval heritage through educational programs and outreach activities that use digital resources and involve cultural institutions and local communities.

05Develop innovative strategies for displaying naval heritage, using immersive VR/AR technology to recreate historical settings while combining conservation of the physical object with digital communication.

06Research and document the history and evolution of shipbuilding, identifying key technological milestones, innovations in design and materials and their socioeconomic impact in different cultures and periods.

Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in Naval Heritage and Historic Ship Restoration

01Naval heritage managercataloging, conservation and communication of historic ships and maritime collections.

02Historic ship restorerplanning and execution of restoration projects using traditional and modern techniques.

03Maritime heritage consultantadvice to public and private institutions on protecting and enhancing naval heritage.

04Maritime exhibition and museum designercontent and experiences to communicate naval heritage.

05Researcher in naval history and maritime archaeologyresearch projects on shipbuilding and the history of navigation.

06Preventive conservation specialistmeasures to protect and preserve historic ships and maritime collections.

Frequently asked questions

Questions about the Master's in Naval Heritage and Historic Ship Restoration

Naval heritage and the restoration of historic ships: diagnosis, documentation, conservation, restoration and long-term care of vessels of historical value.

It focuses on the conservation and restoration of historic ships, their materials and their machinery, using maritime history as the context for every decision.

Ultrasound, infrared thermography, digital radiography, acoustic emission, eddy currents, 3D laser scanning, photogrammetry, finite element analysis and SEM, XRD and Raman analysis of materials.

Yes. A dedicated module covers wooden construction, timber selection, caulking, traditional rigging and sails, metal fittings, the rules for historic ships and maintenance plans for heritage fleets.

Yes. A degree in history, archaeology, architecture or a related field, or experience in heritage or boatbuilding, is enough; the admission interview confirms that the program suits your profile.

Through practical cases and exercises in each module and a Final Project in which you develop a master restoration plan for a historic ship, presented before a panel.

A master's issued by Navalis Institute, together with the diagnoses, documentation and restoration plans you develop during the program.

Fully online, through a virtual campus available 24/7 with live sessions that are recorded, forums and tutorials. It comprises 1500 hours of study across 11 modules of about 136 hours each.

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Online admission

Admission process

No waiting for a call back. If your documents are in order, you can enroll in the same session.

Entry requirements

Profile: aimed at art historians and nautical archaeologists, naval architects and marine engineers, maritime museum and interpretation center staff, shipwrights and traditional boatbuilders, and graduates in history, conservation and restoration or related fields. A related degree, or demonstrable professional experience in naval heritage or the restoration of cultural property, is recommended.
Language: sufficient command of English to follow the classes and the technical documentation.
Technical resources: a computer with a camera and microphone, a stable internet connection and videoconferencing software such as Zoom or Teams.
Admission: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team.

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