UITP Academy, in partnership with AVM, is launching an in-person training programme on Waterborne Transport Operation and Maintenance, taking place 13–15 October 2026 in Venice, Italy.

Passenger waterborne transport is often overlooked in discussions about public transport, yet it plays a vital role in connecting communities, particularly in areas where geographical constraints limit other mobility options or where waterways provide the most efficient routes.

With the revitalisation of urban waterfronts and growing congestion in cities worldwide, waterborne public transport is increasingly becoming an integral part of sustainable urban mobility.

Beyond its practical function, it also offers passengers a unique perspective of cities from the water—combining efficient transport with an attractive travel experience.

This programme provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of waterborne transport systems and operations.

It begins with an introduction to the fundamentals of waterborne transport and its role within modern mobility networks, followed by key insights into the policies and regulatory frameworks shaping the sector.

Participants will explore tendering and contract management, gaining practical knowledge on procurement processes and service delivery models, as well as planning waterborne services, focusing on the coordination and optimisation of routes and schedules.

The course also addresses operations and fleet management, highlighting strategies for safe and efficient vessel management, together with asset and maintenance management to ensure long-term reliability and performance.

Finally, the programme examines emerging trends and innovative technologies, including developments in vessel design, propulsion and sustainability.

Through case studies and real-world examples, participants will discover practical approaches to improving service quality, operational efficiency and customer experience in waterborne transport systems.

What You Will Learn

  • Expand your understanding of waterborne transport operations through interaction with industry leaders and experts.
  • Engage in discussions on diverse applications of waterborne transport, particularly in urban environments and public transport.
  • Draw insights from successful strategies and research initiatives implemented by public transport entities, cities, and industry leaders.
  • Acquire knowledge from industry professionals and operators regarding technological advancements and their integration into public waterborne transport systems.

Who is it for?

  • Professionals involved in the planning, management, and operation of waterborne transport fleets, aiming to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
  • Mobility and R&D Professionals: Individuals working in research and development units, focusing on advancing future waterborne mobility solutions and technologies.
  • Industry Professionals: Staff engaged in the market adoption and integration of new technologies within waterborne transport systems, seeking to stay updated on industry trends and innovations.
  • Professionals interested in gaining international insights and learning from best practices in waterborne transport management and technology integration.
  • Suitable for individuals from companies worldwide looking to expand their knowledge and expertise in waterborne transport operations and management.
  • A good level of English is a compulsory requirement to attend the training.

Programme

Welcome, objective and introduction to the programme

09:00 09:30
Session 1
  • Role and importance of waterborne transport in urban mobility
  • External effects
  • Figures and Model shares
  • Integrating with public transport network
  • Type of vessels (ferries, water taxis, etc.)
  • UITP Activities on Waterborne transport

Break

10:30 11:00
Session 2
  • Authority and operator cooperation
  • Regulations in waterborne transport
  • Complying with National and International Safety Protocols
  • Insurance and liability

Lunch

12:00 13:00
Session 3
  • Tendering options: Competitive, negotiations
  • Contract Model: In-house operations, Net cost, gross cost, concessions, PPP
  • Contract design and length
  • Contract monitoring
  • Funding Models

Break

14:00 14:30
Session 4
  • Designing of routes
  • Planning and scheduling waterborne service
  • Integration with other modes
  • Capacity and Demand management
  • Hybrid Sea Taxi and Sea Bus
  • Revenue management
  • Capacity optimisation
  • Crew management

End of Day 1

16:00 16:00

*UITP reserves the right to make amendments to the programme or any related activity at its discretion

A Top Level Methodology

  • Get inspired by trainers, understand the main aspects of bus planning and scheduling systems
  • Participate in interactive plenary sessions with an introduction by course leaders, presentation by trainers, and open discussions with participants
  • Challenge your practical knowledge of bus planning and scheduling
  • Address the topic from an international perspective, enriched by different cultural approaches and points of view
  • Participate in practical exercises and case studies
  • Benefit from a unique exchange of knowledge and experience between professionals
  • Exchange experiences and discuss key topics during workshops in smaller groups

UITP Training Programmes and all related processes are certified for ISO 21001: 2018 – the standard for Educational organisations – Management systems for educational organisations.

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Trainers

Tord RINGENHALL

Sweden

Pricing

Until 1 September
From 2 September
Groups
4 or more persons

UITP Member

€1,375

€1,850

€1,290

Non Members

€1,775

€2,450

€1,690

€975

€1,375

€950

€1,225

€1,700

€1,150

Contact Us

Have a question? Contact our team if you need any additional information on this event.

Sunita KELECOM

Officer – Events Management Unit
Events & Academy Services
UITP Team

Organisers

Register Now

Secure your place and take part in this training.