1. What is the Certificate in Ship Finance?

The Certificate in Ship Finance is a professional development programme from Lloyd’s Maritime Academy designed to provide an introduction to ship finance. It covers the fundamentals of the ship finance market, traditional bank finance, equity finance, capital markets, and lease finance, offering a pathway to the Diploma in Ship Finance and Vessel Ownership.

2. What will I learn in the Certificate in Ship Finance course?

The course provides a comprehensive understanding of ship finance, including equity finance, lease finance, traditional bank finance, and capital markets. It also explores the latest techniques in ship financing, regulatory changes, and alternative funding sources, equipping students with practical knowledge to navigate the evolving ship finance landscape.

2-1. Does this course cover recent trends in ship finance?

Yes. The course is built around the latest market trends in ship finance, including regulatory developments and how they reshape ship financing transactions. You'll learn what's currently driving deal flow, what to watch for next, and how funding strategies are evolving in the dynamic shipping industry.

2-2. Will I learn to structure deals and manage risks in ship financing transactions?

Yes. Structuring deals and managing risks are core skills you'll develop on the course. You'll learn how to analyse and structure ship financing transactions, identify the key commercial and regulatory risks, and apply practical funding strategies in line with current industry trends.

3. Why is understanding ship finance important for my work?

Understanding ship finance is essential for professionals involved in shipping, finance, and related industries. It enables better decision-making, enhances financial planning, and provides insights into funding options, regulatory compliance, and market trends, which are critical for business success in the maritime sector.

4. Who teaches the Certificate in Ship Finance course?

The course is taught by Ezio Dal Maso, a leading shipping finance partner at Stephenson Harwood. He specialises in financing for cruise ships, LNG carriers, and commercial vessels, with expertise in lease financing, ownership structuring, and ECA-backed loans. Dal Maso also lectures on maritime law and brings a blend of practical insight and academic depth to the course.

5. Who is this course in ship finance for?

The Certificate in Ship Finance is for ship finance professionals, bankers, lawyers, brokers, ship-owner finance teams and commercial managers operating in today's dynamic shipping industry. It also suits early-career professionals who want a structured introduction to ship finance and the latest market trends shaping the marketplace.

6. Do I need experience before enrolling in the Certificate in Ship Finance course?

No specific qualifications are required, but experience in the marine industry is beneficial. The course is suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals looking to deepen their understanding of ship finance.

7. Which companies have previously enrolled staff in the Certificate in Ship Finance course?

Participants in this course have come from a diverse range of organisations, including NYK Line, Eurobank Bulgaria AD, Politeknik Perkapalan Negeri Surabaya (PPNS), CITI Bank, and Princess Cruises. These companies represent a mix of shipping, finance, education, and legal sectors, highlighting the course's broad appeal and relevance.

8. What career opportunities can the Certificate in Ship Finance support?

The course supports career progression into roles such as Ship Manager, Technical Manager, Commercial Manager, Finance Manager, Operations Manager, Lawyer, Financier, CFO, and CEO. It evidences a commitment to a deep understanding of ship finance, which is valuable for advancing in the maritime and finance sectors.

9. Is the Certificate in Ship Finance available on-demand?

No. The course follows a scheduled format, with modules released every two weeks over a 12-week period.

10. Can I choose between the scheduled and on-demand versions of the Certificate in Ship Finance?

Yes. The course is offered as both a scheduled programme and an on-demand option. The scheduled version runs over 16 weeks with modules released periodically and includes interactive forums and tutor support. The on-demand version allows you to start immediately and study at your own pace.

11. How does the scheduled version of the Certificate in ESG in Shipping work?

The scheduled version runs over 16 weeks, with modules released in a structured format. It includes an online forum for networking and interaction with fellow participants, as well as daily email summaries of forum activity. The course director provides exclusive tutor support throughout the programme.

12. Can I study the Certificate in Ship Finance from anywhere?

Yes. The course is delivered fully online and can be accessed globally. No travel or in-person attendance is required.

13. How much time do I need for the Certificate in Ship Finance course?

Each module requires approximately 2–3 hours of study, which is around 1–2 hours per week during the scheduled intake.

14. Does the on-demand Certificate in Ship Finance include tutor support?

No. Tutor interaction and forum support are only available in the scheduled version of the course.

15. How is the Certificate in Ship Finance assessed?

The course is assessed through online tests at the end of each module. A score of 70% is required to progress to the next module.

16. Do I receive a qualification after completing the Certificate in Ship Finance?

Yes. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive a certificate of completion with 21 CPD hours (2.1 CEUs) recorded.

17. When will I receive my Certificate in Ship Finance?

You will receive your digital badge and/or paper certificate after successfully completing all assessments and confirming your mailing details.

18. When does the next Certificate in Ship Finance course start?

The next scheduled intake begins on 16 November 2026. Late applications are accepted until 30 November 2026. The on-demand version can be joined at any time.

19. Can I join the Certificate in Ship Finance late?

Yes. Late applications are accepted for the scheduled intake up to two weeks after the official start date, although you may need to catch up on released modules.

20. What is the fee for the Certificate in Ship Finance?

The Certificate inShip Finance is priced at £2,099 + VAT / $2,840, with an early booking fee of £1,889.10 + VAT / $2,556.
EUR pricing is also available at the exchange rate applied on the invoice date.

21. Are group bookings available for the Certificate in Ship Finance?

Yes. Group bookings and referrals are welcome and may qualify for preferential pricing.
Contact us to discuss the group booking discount.

22. Do I need a visa for the Certificate in Ship Finance?

No. The Certificate in Ship Finance is delivered entirely online and does not require a study visa or physical attendance.

23. Is there a similar course to the Certificate in Ship Finance?

Yes, the Certificate in Ship Finance is part of the Management & Leadership portfolio offered by Lloyd’s Maritime Academy. Related courses in this portfolio focus on strategic decision-making, market analysis, and operational leadership in the maritime industry.