Master's in Superyacht Architecture
This master's gives you an integrated view of how a superyacht is conceived, engineered and built, from the first concept to delivery. You will study naval architecture and stability, hydrodynamics and seakeeping, structures and advanced materials, propulsion and energy efficiency, onboard systems, comfort and acoustics, navigation electronics and interiors, along with the regulations, contracts and project management that shape every large yacht.
Prior knowledge check
These are the skills this program gives you. Tick the ones you already master and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is for you.
You are starting from scratch in this subject. The program is designed precisely for that.
What is the Master's in Superyacht Architecture?
This master's gives you an integrated view of how a superyacht is conceived, engineered and built, from the first concept to delivery. You will work with lines plans, hydrostatics and stability under IMO and REG criteria, use CFD and tank testing to optimize hull forms and appendages, size aluminum, steel and composite structures under classification society rules, and compare diesel, diesel-electric, hybrid and wind-assisted propulsion with alternative fuels. You will also cover HVAC, hydraulic, fuel and fire protection systems, noise and vibration control, the integrated bridge, communications and cybersecurity, luxury interiors, building contracts, refits and flag registration.
What sets this master's apart: a whole-vessel approach that links exterior styling, engineering and interior design; detailed coverage of hydrodynamics, stabilization and comfort on board; propulsion and energy plants geared to lower emissions; the regulatory framework of large yachts, from the REG Yacht Code to SOLAS and MARPOL; and a Final Project in which you design a complete superyacht between 40 and 100+ meters.
Program highlights
- Whole-vessel design: exterior concept, engineering and interiors in a single program.
- Hydrodynamics and comfort: CFD, tank testing, seakeeping and zero-speed stabilization.
- Structures and materials: aluminum, high-strength steel, composites and FEA analysis.
- Lower-emission propulsion: hybrid plants, wind assistance and alternative fuels.
- Large-yacht regulations: REG Yacht Code, classification rules, SOLAS, MARPOL and flag.
- Final Project: the integrated design of a superyacht from 40 to 100+ meters.
Syllabus of the Master's in Superyacht Architecture
11 modules. Select a module to see its content.
Foundations of Naval Architecture and Superyacht Concept Design
- 1.1. Vessel geometry: lines plan, waterlines and form coefficients
- 1.2. Theoretical naval architecture: hydrostatics, displaced volume, buoyancy and centers of gravity
- 1.3. Intact and damage stability: static and dynamic stability curves under IMO and REG codes
- 1.4. Classifying large yachts: motor yachts, sailing yachts, explorer yachts and luxury multihulls
- 1.5. Exterior concept process: proportions, visual profile, deck aesthetics and styling lines
- 1.6. Defining the general specification and the owner's requirements
- 1.7. General arrangement (GA): deck zoning, circulation flows and privacy
- 1.8. Applicable rules and codes: REG Yacht Code (Large Yacht Code), SOLAS, MARPOL and classification societies
- 1.9. Global design trends: megayachts over 100 m, eco-friendly vessels and sustainable technologies
- 1.10. Initial economic analysis: estimating build costs (CAPEX) and maintenance costs (OPEX)
Hydrodynamics, Aerodynamics and Tank Testing
- 2.1. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) applied to hull form optimization
- 2.2. Resistance: viscous, wave and aerodynamic components in non-planing and planing superyachts
- 2.3. Seakeeping: response to waves, passenger comfort and reducing seasickness
- 2.4. Stabilization under way and at anchor (zero speed): active fins, gyroscopic stabilizers and passive tanks
- 2.5. Towing tank testing: scale models, self-propulsion and maneuvering tests
- 2.6. Superstructure aerodynamics: virtual wind tunnel studies for exhaust dispersion and comfort on open decks
- 2.7. Appendage hydrodynamics: keels, centerboards, rudders, interceptors and hydraulic trim tabs
- 2.8. Sail architecture and physics on racing and ocean cruising superyachts
- 2.9. Hull-propeller interaction: cavitation, propeller design and propulsive efficiency
- 2.10. Optimizing low-speed maneuvering and berthing with bow and stern thrusters
Ship Structure, Advanced Materials and Construction
- 3.1. Structural calculations under classification society rules (Lloyd's Register, DNV, RINA)
- 3.2. Metallic materials: marine aluminum alloys (5083/6082) and high-strength steels (AH36)
- 3.3. Composite materials: carbon fiber, Kevlar, glass, epoxy resins and vacuum infusion processes
- 3.4. Finite element analysis (FEA) of stress concentrations around large windows, hull doors and decks
- 3.5. Designing composite and hybrid structural joints (aluminum-composite, steel-aluminum with explosion-bonded transition joints)
- 3.6. Watertight bulkheads and longitudinal and transverse framing in long hulls
- 3.7. Engineering hull openings: fold-down swim platforms, tender garages and deployable terraces
- 3.8. Helideck design on superyachts: dynamic impact loads and CAP 437 requirements
- 3.9. Shipyard construction processes: block assembly, pre-outfitting and launching operations
- 3.10. Structural quality control: non-destructive testing (NDT), ultrasonic testing and weld radiography
Interior Design, Space and Luxury Ergonomics
- 4.1. Interior design philosophy on superyachts: combining luxury, function and naval constraints
- 4.2. Layout of the main areas: owner's suite, VIP cabins, salons and dining rooms
- 4.3. Designing for the crew: ergonomic bridge, galley, cabins and mess room
- 4.4. Selecting high-end interior materials: noble woods, lightweight marble, leathers and marine-grade textiles
- 4.5. Custom fit-out and lightweighting techniques for superyacht furniture
- 4.6. Ergonomics, anthropometry and the design of ceilings, door openings and watertight escape routes
- 4.7. Integrating very large windows and thick structural glass into the interior design
- 4.8. Interior and exterior lighting: LED lighting architecture, lighting scenes and home automation control
- 4.9. Designing relaxation areas: spas, saunas, gyms, cinemas and pools with movable floors
- 4.10. Surface finishes and treatments, varnishing and exterior fairing and painting
Marine Propulsion, Power Plant and Efficiency
- 5.1. Conventional propulsion: medium- and high-speed marine diesel engines and shaft lines
- 5.2. Diesel-electric and hybrid propulsion: configuring generators, batteries and capacitor banks
- 5.3. Advanced propulsion systems: waterjets, azimuthing pods, controllable-pitch propellers and tractor pods
- 5.4. Wind as auxiliary propulsion on superyachts: rigid sails, DynaRig, Flettner rotors and kites
- 5.5. Alternative fuels for superyachts: methanol, ammonia, hydrogen fuel cells and LNG
- 5.6. Exhaust system architecture: SCR treatment, DPF filters and marine silencers
- 5.7. Onboard energy management: smart microgrids, waste heat recovery (WHR) and peak shaving
- 5.8. Lithium battery energy storage: sizing, BMS and thermal safety insulation
- 5.9. Shore power supply and universal frequency conversion systems
- 5.10. Carbon footprint calculation and compliance with IMO EEDI/EEXI phases and the CII indicator
Onboard Systems, Life Support and Building Services Engineering
- 6.1. Marine plumbing: potable water, reverse osmosis watermakers and gray and black water treatment
- 6.2. HVAC systems: chilled water units and HEPA air filtration
- 6.3. Centralized hydraulic systems for garages, gangways, anchors, cranes and hull doors
- 6.4. Ballast and bilge systems: high-capacity pumps, bilge separators and ballast water management
- 6.5. Fuel systems: centrifuges, purifiers, distribution and automatic transfer
- 6.6. Fire safety: early detection, Hi-Fog water mist, Novec and CO2 systems in the engine room
- 6.7. Vessel automation (AMS): marine SCADA systems, alarm integration and remote monitoring
- 6.8. High- and low-voltage electrical installations: distribution, main switchboards and residual current and short-circuit protection
- 6.9. Commercial refrigeration and provision storage for transoceanic voyages
- 6.10. Integrating tanks into the hull: water, fuel, oil and sludge tanks
Comfort, Acoustics, Noise and Vibration (NVH) and Quality of Life
- 7.1. Noise and vibration (NVH) analysis: excitation sources (engines, propellers, water flow, HVAC)
- 7.2. Acoustic comfort criteria under class notations (RINA, DNV or Lloyd's comfort classes)
- 7.3. Structural sound insulation: viscoelastic damping, floating bulkheads and resilient floors
- 7.4. Decoupling machinery: anti-vibration mounts, flexible couplings and damped engine seatings
- 7.5. Exhaust air dynamics and odor mitigation on passenger decks
- 7.6. Dealing with propeller pressure pulses on the hull beneath cabin areas
- 7.7. Visual ergonomics: controlling reflections on bridge windows through inclination and coatings
- 7.8. Climate control in covered exterior spaces with air curtains and infrared heaters
- 7.9. Selecting high-performance thermal and acoustic glazing (double or triple laminated glass with UV/IR control)
- 7.10. Field tests and measurements during sea trials: acoustic surveys and vibration comfort measurements under way
Navigation Electronics, Communications and Home Automation (AV/IT)
- 8.1. Designing and integrating the bridge (glass cockpit): ergonomic consoles and human-machine interfaces
- 8.2. Integrated navigation systems (INS): ECDIS, ARPA radar, conning, echo sounders, gyrocompasses and GPS/GNSS
- 8.3. Dynamic positioning systems (DP1/DP2) for virtual anchoring without dropping anchor in protected areas
- 8.4. Maritime communications infrastructure: VSAT, LEO satellites (Starlink/OneWeb), coastal 5G/6G and GMDSS
- 8.5. Onboard data network architecture: structured cabling, interior fiber optics and high-density Wi-Fi 7
- 8.6. Audiovisual systems (AV/IT): central media servers, hidden screens, high-fidelity sound and cinemas
- 8.7. Integrated home automation: control of blinds, lighting, climate and crew calls through touch interfaces
- 8.8. Cybersecurity on connected vessels: separating IT networks (guests and entertainment) from OT networks (navigation and machinery)
- 8.9. Night vision, thermal cameras (FLIR) and AI-assisted detection systems for night navigation
- 8.10. CCTV, access control, intrusion detection and anti-piracy protection systems
Project Management, Shipyards, Costs and Superyacht Refit
- 9.1. Structure of the superyacht industry: new-build yards, refit yards and subcontractors
- 9.2. Naval project management (PMI/PRINCE2): assembly sequence planning, Gantt charts and critical path
- 9.3. Managing the yacht building contract: payment milestones, penalties and inspections
- 9.4. The role of the owner's representative and the independent supervision team
- 9.5. Refit operations: hull lengthening, superstructure modifications and space conversions
- 9.6. Procurement and the global supply chain for high-end marine equipment
- 9.7. Factory acceptance tests (FAT) and harbor and sea acceptance tests (HAT/SAT)
- 9.8. Flag registration under open and commercial registers (Cayman Islands, Malta, British Virgin Islands, Isle of Man)
- 9.9. Managing the post-delivery warranty, closing out punch lists and planned maintenance
- 9.10. Sustainable dismantling and recycling of superyacht materials at end of life
Regulations, Classification and Certification of Superyachts
- 10.1. REG Yacht Code and LY3
- 10.2. Classification rules for yachts
- 10.3. SOLAS applied to large yachts
- 10.4. Passenger yacht code for yachts carrying more than 12 passengers
- 10.5. Stability and subdivision
- 10.6. Fire protection on yachts
- 10.7. Life-saving appliances
- 10.8. MARPOL and emissions requirements
- 10.9. Certification and flag registration
- 10.10. Regulatory compliance plan for a superyacht
Final Project
- 11.1. Choosing the project brief: length (40 m to 100 m+), lifestyle concept on board and owner's profile
- 11.2. Developing the 3D exterior concept and surface language with specialized software (Rhino/Alias)
- 11.3. Detailed general arrangement (GA): deck plans, accommodation, garages and technical spaces
- 11.4. Modeling and optimizing the hull lines with a preliminary CFD simulation
- 11.5. Naval architecture calculations: displaced volume, sectional area curve and stability check
- 11.6. Selecting and arranging the propulsion plant, auxiliary systems and energy efficiency strategy
- 11.7. Interior design proposal for the main spaces: 3D renders, materials palette and lighting plan
- 11.8. Selecting structural materials, main scantling calculations and weight check
- 11.9. Preparing the full technical report, building specification and estimated budget
- 11.10. Public presentation, hyperrealistic rendering, physical or virtual model and oral defense of the project before a panel
Duration and format of the Master's in Superyacht Architecture
It is 1,500 hours. Tell us how many you can study each week and we will tell you when you will really finish.
This is the pace at which most students finish. It fits well with the installment plan.
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 CoordinatorObjectives of the Master's in Superyacht Architecture
Career opportunities after the Master's in Superyacht Architecture
Questions about the Master's in Superyacht Architecture
Superyachts and large yachts: motor yachts, sailing yachts, explorer yachts and luxury multihulls, including megayachts over 100 meters.
Interiors are only one part of it. The core of the program is the engineering of the whole vessel: hydrostatics and stability, hydrodynamics, structures, propulsion, onboard systems, comfort, electronics and regulations.
It helps, but it is not essential. The first module lays the foundations of vessel geometry, hydrostatics and stability before moving on to hydrodynamics, structures and systems.
Yes. Module 5 covers hybrid and diesel-electric plants, wind-assisted propulsion, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen and LNG, exhaust treatment, battery storage, shore power and the IMO EEDI/EEXI and CII framework.
No. It is a specialist program of Navalis Institute; design approval is granted by classification societies and flag administrations, and professional engineering competences depend on the officially recognized qualifications of each country.
Through practical exercises in each module and a Final Project in which you design a complete superyacht, from exterior concept and general arrangement to hull lines, stability, propulsion, structure, interiors and budget, presented before a panel.
A Navalis Institute master's certificate and a design portfolio built during the program, including the complete superyacht project of your Final Project.
The master's is taught online and comprises 1500 hours of study across 11 modules of about 136 hours each, ending with a Final Project.
More programs in Hull and naval architecture
Admission process
No waiting for a call back. If your documents are in order, you can enroll in the same session.
- Profile: aimed at naval architects and yacht designers, naval and marine engineers, project managers and shipbuilding managers, suppliers of high-end marine equipment and graduates in architecture, engineering, industrial design or related fields; demonstrable professional experience in shipbuilding or luxury yacht design is also a valid route.
- Language: sufficient command of English to follow the classes and the technical documentation.
- Technical resources: a computer able to run CAD and 3D modeling software, a stable internet connection, an up-to-date browser and a camera for live sessions and project presentations.
- Admission: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team.
- 01ApplicationYour details, background and documents.
- 02Instant reviewWe check that everything is complete and in order.
- 03EnrollmentChoose full payment or instalments and reserve your place.
Admission is provisional until the committee validates the documents provided. If you do not meet the requirements, the full amount is refunded.
Ask us before you enroll
Leave your details and admissions will write to you to answer any questions. If you are already sure, you can apply and pay in the same session.