MOST

  • MOST Italy

    Truck unloading at port of arrival - seen during the unloading workshop of the MOST course

MOST (Motorways of the Sea Training) Italy is the training course for professionals that the Escola Europea Intermodal Transport offers exclusively to the Italian logistics and transport market.

4 days

English

Italian

Civitavecchia

Barcelona

The cost depends on the size of the group.

Contact us!

Objectives
  • To provide training in intermodal logistics, short sea-shipping services and the motorways of the sea.
  • To get to know the benefits and calculate the savings to be gained from the use of the motorways of the sea, in terms of costs, the environment and risks.
Participant profile
  • Logistics operators;
  • Maritime agencies,
  • Port authorities;
  • and relevant institutions from the sector
Contents
  • Motorways of the Sea in Europe
  • Intermodal Logistics
  • Calculation of marginal external costs
  • Competitive analysis: types of operations and comparison of costs between transport modes
  • Port and forwarding services
  • EU environmental policy in transport’

+ Group work

Workshops
  • Land visit of the port of Civitavecchia
  • Maritime visit of the port of Barcelona
  • Loading goods into the ship
  • Tour of the garage area
  • Visit to the bridge
  • Visit to the engine room (optional)

Networking

Networking activities are organised during the course to facilitate the development and exchange of contact networks between professionals and experts in the national sector.

Testimonials

The course organisation is impeccable. I hope I will be able to take more courses in the next years, to increase my network and deepen my studies and find new inputs to improve and keep on growing, thank you!

I feel lucky to have been able to learn with and from professionals in the field, and with a spectacular organization. Congratulations!

It was a wonderful experience.

Very interesting and fun course.

#DidYouKnow?

The Human Side of Digitalisation: A Conversation with Jaime Luezas

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As the maritime and logistics sectors accelerate their digital transition, one idea is becoming increasingly clear: true transformation is not about technology alone. While systems become more advanced and interoperability grows more feasible, the real barriers – and opportunities – lie elsewhere.

To understand where the future is headed, Odiseo spoke with Jaime Luezas, Head of Port Community Services at Puertos del Estado (Spain) and one of the leading voices in port digitalisation. In this conversation, he reflects on the shift from documents to data spaces, the critical role of semantic standards, and why emotional intelligence may be just as important as artificial intelligence.

De izquierda a derecha: Antonio Vargas, Alexandre Ariza y Jaime Luezas durante el curso MOST

Below is the full interview.

Conversation with Jaime Luezas, Head of Port Community Services, Puertos del Estado (Spain)

Q: We often talk about sharing, committing and cooperating, yet when it comes to sharing data, there seems to be a reluctance. From your perspective, what is the current state of play, and how should we approach the future?

Jaime Luezas:
In my view, the technical problem has already been solved. Today, interoperability between different systems is technologically possible—even if those systems were developed separately or use different architectures. The real challenges are semantic interoperability and trust.

Semantic interoperability means that we all understand data in the same way. This requires ontology, common definitions and international standards, which are still under development. And then there is trust—not only between companies, but between people. Digitalisation also involves emotional management.

Q: In the past, initiatives like eb-XML attempted to create data dictionaries and harmonisation mechanisms. Is that approach still relevant?

Jaime Luezas:
The technology may have evolved, but the principle remains the same: either we agree on a common data standard, or we build translation mechanisms. Artificial intelligence can help automate translations, but the underlying semantic exercise still needs to be done.

Q:There is often confusion between digitisation and digitalisation. How should we define these concepts?

Jaime Luezas:
In English, we differentiate between digitization and digitalization.

Digitization is simply converting analog information, such as paper documents, into digital form.

Digitalization is much deeper—it means structuring business processes around data, rather than documents. That is where true transformation happens.

Q: You have worked extensively on the concept of data as the fundamental unit, beyond traditional documents like the customs declaration (DUA). How should we think about that?

Jaime Luezas:
Exactly. The DUA is a document, yes, but ultimately it is just a set of data elements. The future lies in exchanging those data elements directly, rather than sending whole documents.

Q: We are moving toward smart ports and increasingly complex logistics environments. What role does training play in this transition?

Jaime Luezas:
Training is essential. First, to understand the technology and governance models of data exchange, and to remove the fear of sharing information. Second, because training creates human connection. It builds trust and emotional intelligence—without that, digitalisation will not succeed.

Q: Simple has been a key driver of recent developments. Will it also transform logistics chains and sustainability efforts?

Jaime Luezas:
Yes. Simple provides the platform that connects systems and enables interoperability. Its success will be reinforced by new legislation such as the Sustainable Mobility Law and the mandatory use of electronic control documents. These changes will accelerate digital transformation across the logistics chain.

Q: What do you think are the main challenges for port communities over the next five years?

Jaime Luezas:
The main challenge is to transition from document-based processes to data spaces. This will fundamentally change how we operate. Additionally, ports must understand that they are not isolated hubs. They are nodes within global supply chains and must be fully integrated with broader logistics ecosystems.

Q: Jaime, thank you for your insights. Before we close, is there anything else you would like to add—something you feel is important to highlight, given the opportunity?

Jaime Luezas:
I would just say that the only real, practical experience I have seen of genuine coexistence and emotional collaboration is the Escola Europea. I have known it for many years, and I truly see it as a model of what we are talking about: emotional intelligence in logistics communities. Every time I have participated, I have seen people leave more open, more human, and more willing to collaborate.

Odiseo:
That is exactly what we aim for. Thank you, Jaime.

#BacktoBasics: Short Sea Shipping

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 Short Sea Shipping (SSS) refers to the movement of cargo and passengers by sea over short distances, acting as a crucial component of intermodal transport chains. Unlike deep-sea routes that cross oceans, SSS typically operates within the same continent or between nearby countries. It serves as an efficient bridge between other modes of transport, such as road, rail, and inland waterways, facilitating seamless door-to-door services. It is a central part of intermodal transport, and this is why we are focusing on it in this month’s #BacktoBasics series.

Cruise Roma - Grimaldi Lines

Cruise Roma – a short sea shipping ferry berthed in the Port of Barcelona

Advantages of Short Sea Shipping

SSS offers numerous benefits over other transportation methods. Environmentally, it’s significantly cleaner, producing lower emissions per tonne of cargo moved compared to road and air transport when looking at transport emissions through a global lens. Economically, SSS can be more cost-effective, especially for bulk or heavy goods, due to lower fuel costs and economies of scale. It also alleviates congestion on busy road networks and is characterized by high reliability and safety standards.

  • Environmental Benefits: One of the most compelling advantages of SSS is its reduced environmental footprint. Maritime transport emits significantly lower levels of CO2 and pollutants per tonne-kilometre of cargo transported compared to road and air transport. This makes SSS a cornerstone of sustainable logistics strategies, particularly important in the context of global efforts to combat climate change. The adoption of cleaner fuel technologies and advanced vessel designs further enhances the environmental credentials of SSS, making it an even more attractive option for eco-conscious businesses.
  • Cost-effectiveness: From a financial perspective, SSS offers considerable savings, especially for bulk and heavy cargo. The economies of scale achievable with maritime transport mean that larger volumes of goods can be moved at a lower cost per unit than would be possible with road or air freight. Additionally, the indirect costs associated with road congestion and the wear-and-tear on infrastructure are significantly reduced, presenting a compelling case for businesses looking to optimize their supply chain expenses.
  • Congestion Relief on Land Routes: By shifting a portion of cargo traffic from congested roadways to the sea, SSS plays a vital role in alleviating traffic congestion. This not only improves the efficiency of the transport system as a whole but also contributes to reducing accidents and delays associated with over-reliance on road transport. In urban areas, where road congestion is a significant issue, SSS can offer a practical solution to reduce pressure on land transport infrastructure.
  • Reliability and Safety: Maritime transport is known for its reliability and safety record. The predictable nature of sea routes, free from the unpredictability of road traffic conditions, allows for more accurate scheduling and planning. The stringent international regulations governing maritime safety and the professional operation of vessels further ensure that cargo transported via SSS reaches its destination securely.
  • Versatility and Accessibility: SSS offers unparalleled versatility, capable of accommodating a wide range of cargo types—from liquid bulk and dry bulk to containers and oversized loads. This flexibility makes it an essential component of diverse supply chains. Moreover, with the extensive network of ports and coastal routes, SSS provides access to regions and markets that might be challenging to reach via other modes of transport, thus enabling businesses to explore new opportunities and expand their reach.
  • Integration with Other Modes of Transport: A key advantage of SSS is its ability to integrate seamlessly with other transport modes, such as road, rail, and inland waterways. This multimodal connectivity ensures that goods can be transported from origin to destination efficiently and cost-effectively, leveraging the strengths of each mode. For instance, SSS can be used for the main leg of transportation, with road transport covering the ‘last mile’ delivery, thus combining the cost and environmental benefits of maritime transport with the convenience and reach of road transport.

Differences Between SSS and Other Modes of Transport

While long-haul sea shipping focuses on transporting goods across oceans, SSS emphasizes shorter, more frequent services. Compared to road transport, SSS can handle higher volumes at lower costs, with less environmental impact. Against rail and air, SSS stands out for its versatility in cargo types and routes, though it may not match the speed of air freight or the land coverage of rail.

RoTypes of Traffic and Vessels in SSS

SSS employs a variety of vessels to accommodate different cargo types:

  • Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) Ships: Ideal for wheeled cargo like trucks and trailers, allowing for quick loading and unloading.
  • Lift-on/Lift-off (Lo-Lo) Ships: Used for containers and bulky goods, loaded and unloaded by cranes.
  • Container Ships: Specialized for containerized cargo, facilitating easy transfer between different transport modes.
  • Ferries (Ro-Pax) and Barge Services: Transport both passengers and vehicles across short distances.

Key Considerations for Businesses

When integrating Short Sea Shipping (SSS) into their logistics strategies, businesses should consider the following:

  • Route Selection: It’s crucial to choose SSS routes that offer dependable schedules and connect well to inland transport. Aligning these routes with the supply chain can cut down transit times and expenses.
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis: SSS can be more economical than other transport methods, but businesses should weigh all costs, including tariffs and inventory expenses, against the benefits, such as reduced congestion and emissions.
  • Environmental Considerations: SSS is a greener option, which companies can use to their advantage in marketing efforts and to meet sustainability goals.
  • Integration with Other Transport Modes: Coordination with road, rail, and air freight is essential for the efficient movement of goods, necessitating strong partnerships with various stakeholders in the supply chain.

By carefully assessing these factors, businesses can fully leverage the advantages of SSS and enhance their overall logistics operations.

 

Examples and Success Stories

  • The Baltic Sea Region: The Baltic Sea is a prime example of effective SSS, connecting countries like Sweden, Finland, and the Baltic states with Germany, Poland, and Russia. Services such as the Viking Line and Tallink Silja offer frequent Ro-Ro and passenger ferry services, facilitating trade and tourism. This region showcases how SSS can offer a competitive alternative to land and air transport, especially in areas with challenging geography.
  • Mediterranean SSS Corridors: The Mediterranean region has developed robust SSS corridors that link European ports with North Africa and the Middle East, serving as vital links for freight and passenger movement. Companies like Grimaldi Lines or GNV operate extensive Ro-Ro, Lo-Lo, and ferry services, supporting regional trade and contributing to economic development.
  • North American Great Lakes: The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System is a key SSS route in North America, allowing ships to move cargo from the Atlantic Ocean to the industrial heartland of the USA and Canada. This route demonstrates SSS’s role in supporting domestic and international trade, reducing highway traffic, and promoting economic growth in the region.

Conclusion

The future of Short Sea Shipping (SSS) looks promising as global trends lean towards more sustainable and integrated transport solutions. As businesses and governments seek to reduce carbon emissions and alleviate congestion on roads, SSS stands out as a viable and attractive option. Advancements in ship technology, such as the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and other alternative fuels, are making SSS even more environmentally friendly. Additionally, digitalization and the use of blockchain technology in maritime logistics are expected to enhance efficiency, transparency, and security in SSS operations.

The increasing emphasis on multimodal transport networks will further elevate the importance of SSS, making it an integral component of global supply chains. As we move towards a greener and more connected world, SSS is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation and logistics.

We’ve done our research – so should you! Check out our sources below to delve more deeply into the topic:

SOURCES

  1. European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA): “The Environmental Benefits of Short Sea Shipping“
  2. International Maritime Organization (IMO): “Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships“
  3. The Baltic Sea Region Intermodal Transport Research: “Efficiency and Sustainability of SSS in the Baltic Sea.“
  4. United Nations Conference on Trade and Development: Short Sea Shipping and the Energy Transition”: https://unctad.org/news/short-sea-shipping-and-energy-transition
  5. Mediterranean Shipping Company Case Studies: “Innovative Solutions for Mediterranean Short Sea Shipping.”
  6. The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System: ” Great Lakes Short-Sea Shipping Could Improve US-Canada Cargo Movement”: https://maritime-executive.com/article/great-lakes-short-sea-shipping-could-improve-us-canada-cargo-movement
Smart logistics concept

Back to basics: What is a Smart Port?

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This year at the Escola we thought that we would go back to some basic (but modern) concepts connected to intermodal transport. With the series that we are calling #BackToBasics, we will begin explaining some concepts that are central to the transport sector today, but which can be confusing to some. We will kick-start our series with the concept of a “Smart Port.”

Daily Logistik: Asian Development Bank describes a smart port as a port that ensures “no waste of space, time, money and natural resources.”

What is a Smart Port?

 The inclusion of the word “smart” in the name implies the capabilities of the port and the integrated workflow (Marine Insight).  So what is it exactly? A smart port is a modern port that uses advanced technology and digital systems to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness of its operations. Smart ports often use digital tools such as sensors, data analytics, augmented reality, big data, digital twins and automation to optimize the movement of cargo, reduce waste and emissions, and provide better services to stakeholders (which include shipping companies, customs authorities, and local communities). Smart ports may also include features such as renewable energy sources, electric charging stations (Onshore Power Supply), and smart infrastructure for logistics and transportation

“The goal of a smart port is to enable a more efficient, sustainable, and profitable port ecosystem that can support economic growth and regional development.”

What are Smart Port’s Digital Tools ?

Smart ports are classified as “smart” because they use a variety of digital tools to optimise their operations. These include:

  1. Sensors: Smart ports often use sensors to monitor various aspects of their operations, such as cargo movement, traffic flow, environmental conditions, and security. These sensors can provide real-time data that can be used to optimize operations and improve decision-making.
  2. Data analytics: Smart ports use data analytics to process and analyse the data collected from sensors and other sources, such as shipping manifests and customs declarations. This data can be used to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.
  3. Automation: Smart ports may use automation technologies such as robots, drones, and self-driving vehicles to improve the efficiency and accuracy of certain tasks, such as cargo handling and inspection.
  4. Digital platforms: Smart ports may use digital platforms, such as cloud computing, blockchain, digital twins and internet of things (IoT) technologies, to connect various stakeholders and enable more efficient and transparent communication and collaboration.
  5. Clean technologies: Smart ports can incentivize the use of cleaner technologies, such as electric vehicles and renewable energy sources, to reduce the environmental impact of port operations.
  6. Energy efficiency measures: Smart ports can implement energy efficiency measures, such as LED lighting and energy-efficient systems, to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Why? For cleaner, greener ports

The use of digital tools helps smart ports reduce costs, improve service quality, and increase agility and responsiveness to market demands. There is no doubt about it. However, another characteristic of a smart port is its emphasis on sustainable operations and the creation of a greener port.

Below you can find some elements that help characterise a smart port that as “green”:

  1. Promoting recycling and waste reduction: Smart ports can implement recycling programs and encourage the use of reusable containers and packaging materials to reduce waste and improve resource efficiency.
  2. The use of renewable energy: Smart ports can use a variety of renewable energy sources to power their operations, including
    1. Solar power: Smart ports can install solar panels on rooftops, car parks, and other suitable areas to generate electricity from the sun.
    2. Wind power: Smart ports can install wind turbines on land or offshore to generate electricity from wind.
    3. Hydroelectric power: Smart ports located near rivers or oceans can use the flow of water to generate electricity through hydroelectric power plants.
    4. Geothermal power: Smart ports can use geothermal energy, which is generated from the Earth’s internal heat, to generate electricity and heat buildings.
    5. Biomass: Smart ports can use biomass, such as wood chips or agricultural waste, to generate electricity through combustion or anaerobic digestion.
  3. The use of electric vehicles: Many ports have begun to use electric vehicles, cranes and container stackers within their terminals to minimise emissions and ensure cleaner air around the port community area. By providing multiple charging points, smart ports make it easier for the port community companies to operate these clean energy vehicles.

Overall, reducing waste and emissions is an important aspect of sustainable port operations and helps smart ports contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and protect the environment.

Sources:

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