Westlawn

LEARN YACHT DESIGN

Westlawn's mission.

The Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology operates around one central goal:

Enabling our students and alumni to achieve their dreams of becoming successful yacht designers.

Westlawn Opens Doors

Over the years, Westlawn has produced more practicing small-craft designers than any other institution in the world.

Westlawn graduates have established careers throughout the marine industry, with leading builders and design firms. Many have launched their own independent design firms.

The Westlawn Diploma in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, and Yacht Design demonstrates the graduate’s mastery of concept and design skills. Equally important to prospective clients and employers, it offers proof of superior self-discipline and dedication, for a powerful competitive advantage in the global marine industry.

Many Westlawn graduates report that their portfolios of design projects from the Westlawn course have been a primary factor in securing employment with leading boatbuilders and design firms. Employers add that Westlawn students’ learning is practical, relevant and up-to-date, allowing them to begin contributing immediately as productive team members.

Many Westlawn students have completed their studies after being hired as designers in many industries.

Who Should Consider Westlawn

Recent high school graduates choose Westlawn as the next step in their education, leading directly to a yacht and boat design career.

College and university students earning degrees in naval architecture and marine engineering find that Westlawn provides skills in boat design not covered in university courses, as well as training in conceptualization and aesthetics.

Many Westlawn students have already established careers in other disciplines, and seek to change their professional direction. Others, already working as designers in the marine industry, select Westlawn as a path to professional development and career enhancement.

So if you have an interest in boats and a desire to flex your creative muscle in marine design, the Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology is for you.

A Westlawn Education Is Effective, Convenient, And Affordable

To help you achieve your professional dreams, we’ve made it easier than ever to complete your Westlawn education.

Your monthly student fee covers your student membership in the two professional organizations that will be very important to your career as a yacht designer: RINA, the Royal Institution of Naval Architects, and SNAME, the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers. These two organizations provide you with periodicals and access to an enormous library of valuable reference materials.

Because tuition and enrollment fees include all text materials, software tools, assignment review and evaluation, testing, grading and consultation with faculty, the cost of a Westlawn education represents a superior value.

Practical, Project Based Learning

Our courses are online, and have always been based on “Project Based Learning” which is widely recognized as the most effective way to learn: As a Westlawn student you will learn knowledge and skills, and immediately apply your skills on practical yacht designs.

Project Based Learning enables you to internalize and retain the knowledge and skills, as you use the tools and processes used in professional yacht design firms.

Select Westlawn students also have the opportunity to collaborate on Superyacht designs at Art Center College of Design, in Pasadena California.

By the time you graduate, your portfolio of professional quality design work will include nine designs of yachts engineered in aluminum, fiberglass, and wood, both sail and power.

This realistic and practical education means you will have the confident ability to design yachts for clients upon graduation.

The Yacht Design and Naval Architecture Course

A comprehensive four-module professional education, the Westlawn Yacht Design & Naval Architecture course enables you to master the principles of yacht design using industry standard tools, including Rhino3d and AutoCAD.

During this course, you will prepare plans, computations, specifications and all the details for nine different boat designs. You will design both powerboats and sailboats. You will follow the practices of successful yacht design firms.

Your nine different designs will be critiqued by the Westlawn faculty of professional yacht designers, and will provide you with a portfolio of your own designs to help you start your career.

Module 1: Principles of Yacht Design

Introduction to design process; Fundamentals of statics and dynamics and their influence on design.

Module 2: Aesthetics and Layouts

Elements of exterior and interior design of powerboats, monohull sailboats and multihulls, using Rhino and Autodesk tools such as AutoCAD.

Module 3: Construction Methods

A detailed study of manufacturing technologies, materials and processes for wood, fiberglass and aluminum production.

Module 4: Systems and Equipment

Design considerations and issues relating to engine installations, propulsion, electrical, navigation, plumbing, fuel and environmental systems.

When you satisfactorily complete all four modules, you will graduate and be awarded the Diploma in Yacht Design, Naval Architecture, and Marine Engineering.

Admission Requirements

The Yacht Design & Naval Architecture course is a comprehensive and rigorous course. You should be prepared and mature enough for a college education. There are no specific prerequisites, other than self motivation and discipline.

You need a Mac or PC with internet access and email to enroll and to do the coursework.

Work at your own pace

You may start the Westlawn course at any time.

The entire Yacht Design & Naval Architecture course requires about 3,200 hours of study and assignment preparation, or about 1 to 3 hours a day to complete the course in 4 years.

Westlawn is a work-at-your-own-pace school. Some complete in as little as two years, others may take a decade. It is common for our students to obtain gainful employment as designers of yachts, cars, airplanes, products, and interiors early in their education at Westlawn.

Tuition and Fees

$4600 per module for tuition, and $100 enrollment fee per month. Therefore, the total 4 module course will cost about $23,200 if completed in 4 years.

Everything is Included

Your tuition and enrollment fees includes all books and full versions of all software from Autodesk, including AutoCAD, Alias, Maya, Inventor. Deep discounts on Rhino and Orca3d are also available to our students.

Making waves for 90 years

Since 1930, Westlawn has set the standard for yacht design education. Over the years, our alumni continue to lead the marine industry in setting the tone for style throughout the industry, including sailing and power yachts and commercial vessels.

For example, alumnus Jack Hargrave gave us the now pervasive style of sport fishing boats with long fordecks and wide and low cockpits.

Alumni Andrej Justin, Tom Fexas, Bruce King, Gerry Douglas, Roger Martin, Dudley Dix, John Swarbrick, Doug Zurn, Rod Johnstone, and many others have designed large numbers of beautiful and influencial custom and production yachts including many America’s Cup racers.

Eos, the 320’ three masted schooner built by Lurssen, was designed by Westlawn graduate and Senior Partner of Langan Design, Antonio Ferrer.

Recent graduates include Adam Voorhees, Superyacht design award winner, and Adriana Monk, a Chief Designer for Wally Yachts of Monaco.

What Alumni Have to Say about Westlawn

It was a wonderful day for me personally to be able to present a second diploma to a Westlawn graduate since taking over the Hargrave company. I want to thank Westlawn for making all this possible not only for Greg Boyko, but for the entire Hargrave family. We take great pride in our company’s long history with Westlawn, and the list of honored recipients to receive a Westlawn diploma who not only played an important role in our company, but in the yachting industry overall is impressive indeed. Keep up the great work!
. . . I am currently a NAMS surveyor in Annapolis and have had my own successful business for over 16 years. I have been employed by two yacht yards and the US Navy. I spent three years on the drawing board primarily working for the Navy but doing some independent smaller design projects. In the last 20 years I have traveled to 40 countries surveying all manner of vessels from ocean going tugs and floating dry docks to yachts and high speed patrol boats. Many thanks for helping me establish a rewarding and wonderful career.
I am a Westlawn grad who has worked in the industry for over 17 years and am now presently holding the position of Sr. Development Engineer at Pursuit Boats (a division of S2 Yachts, Inc.). I have had several colleagues of mine inquire about the Westlawn program and I am always eager to provide a wonderful appraisal of my studies at Westlawn. It was exciting when ABYC decided to adopt the course and I was also pleased to hear that Norman Nudelman was once again part of the faculty. Keep up the good work and good luck with your future endeavors.
For those of us whose school notebooks were embroidered with boat sketches, the practice of yacht design is just being paid for doing what we like best. Training, such as the Westlawn course, is essential to make this possible. It did this for me.
If you are the kind of person that seeks rewards beyond the monetary boundaries, there is nothing so gratifying as seeing your design take shape and finally sail away. The Westlawn School of Yacht Design course can extract those talents from our creative genes.
I recommend Westlawn to anyone desiring to become a yacht designer or commercial boat designer.
. . . the quality of its graduates, including Bruce King, Bill Shaw, and Ted Brewer remains a constant.

Westlawn is a 501(c)3 non-profit public charity. Therefore, all revenues and funds are used only for the education of Westlawn students. Over the past 90 years, Westlawn has educated thousands of practicing yacht designers. Westlawn provides students with all books and software tools required to complete the course.

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6 of the best yacht design courses to kick-start your career

Yacht design and production beng.

Although many of the world’s top superyacht designers had no formal training, taking a yacht design course can be a great way to kick-start your career and make vital industry connections. We round up five of the best.

Southampton Solent University’s Yacht Design and Production Course has an international reputation and for good reason, as it features guest lectures from BMT Nigel Gee and work experience placements at Sunseeker International . Students on this three-year course study the engineering science behind great yacht design as well as the fundamental principles of naval architecture. A foundation year is available, as well as opportunities to study abroad. Notable successes include the class of 2014, who built the foiling catamaran Solent Whisper (pictured above).

Yacht Design Diploma

Based in the American town of Arundel, Maine, the Landing School offers a wide range of courses in marine technology. Its Yacht Design Diploma boasts a 100% employment rate for former students and bursaries are available via the Women in the Marine Industry scholarship. Alumni have gone on to work for the America’s Cup team Artemis Racing (pictured above).

Yacht Design 1st Level Masters

Offered as a postgraduate course, the Yacht Design 1st Level Masters at Milan’s ISAD design school is intended for students who have a degree in architecture, engineering or design. Taught in both English and Italian, this one-year course culminates in an industry placement, and guest speakers include  Mario Pedol  (who designed the 180 metre  Azzam  — pictured), and  Andrea Vallicelli .

Yacht and Boat Design Diploma

The Westlawn Institute has been teaching yacht design for more than 80 years, and currently offers an online distance-learning programme. The Yacht and Boat Design course is taught by tutors based in the USA and Australia, and is accredited by the Royal Institute of Naval Architects in London. This one-year diploma features modules on construction, engineering and CAD. Famous alumni include Douglas Zurn , Tom Fexas and Geoffrey Van Aller , who is responsible for the design of many of the top 50 largest US-built yachts , such as the 73 metre Cocoa Bean (pictured above).

Automotive and Transport Design MDes/BA

A slightly left field option perhaps, but automotive design is one of the key fields that influences yacht design . This three to four-year undergraduate course at Coventry University is held in particularly high regard for its strong industry connections. Former students who have gone on to make a name for themselves in the superyacht world include Jonny Horsfield (whose H2 Yacht Design studio created the exteriors for the 123 metre Project Jupiter  — pictured above), and Steve Gresham.

Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering MEng

In recent years, there has been a trend towards students using naval architecture courses as a route into yacht design, as James Roy from BMT Nigel Gee explains: "It used to be that if you attended a traditional naval architecture degree then you would spend most of your time learning things about big merchant ships, but that is not the case anymore.

"Most university degrees are now geared to provide modular approaches, and the naval architecture and engineering of smaller and specialist vessels, such as yachts, are included."

This four-year course at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow is a case in point — providing a broad basis for understanding how a wide variety of vessels work, from luxury yachts to commercial ships. The faculty also owns a 10 metre sailing yacht called Catalina (pictured above), which students can hire for as little as £30 per day.

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Yacht Interior Design

Navigating Elegance: The Art and Science of Yacht Design

Navigating Elegance: The Art and Science of Yacht Design

yacht interior design degree

Credits from the training:

Digital skills

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Inquire about course fees to discover the current rates and uncover potential discounts for your training.

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Add a review for this course :, forthcoming groups, 19 nov. 2025.

  • Group size Unlimited
  • Final exam 19.Jan.2026
  • Sessions 8 (2 months)
  • Session duration 90 min.
  • Days Monday and Wednsday
  • Hour 19:00 CET CET
  • Format Real-time online learning

yacht interior design degree

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Confirm your enrolment in the group

Course "Yacht Interior Design"

Price: 290 eur.

After confirming your request, you will receive an email with the conditions for participation and our bank details for payment by bank transfer. Best of luck with your course!

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yacht interior design degree

What is Yacht Interior Design?

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yacht interior design degree

Yacht Design

Yacht Design

November 2024

20.100 € Find out the current facilitations

The Master in Yacht Design offers the ideal educational path to become a Yacht Designer

The Master in Yacht Design offers the ideal educational path to become a Yacht Designer, by giving the necessary skills to deal with every stage of the design process – from the initial research and development of the concept to the actual construction of the interiors and exteriors and the validation of production processes in the boatyard. 

In recent years, the nautical sector has expanded constantly, confirming its role as one of the drivers of Made in Italy design. Furthermore, and the new classic approach, based on naval architecture, is taking on an automotive oriented edge, which introduces new working standards and technical and style solutions borrowed from car design.

The vocation of the Piemonte area, which boasts a number of style centres and renowned companies in the land and sea transport sectors, as well as one of the world’s largest shipyards, combined with the short distance from the coast of Liguria, makes Turin the natural setting for a training course founded on the growing process of osmosis that links the yacht world and the automotive industry.   

Information to decide

Methodology and structure.

The course is planned in levels, which begin with providing students with essential knowledge of the nautical sector, in terms of both cultural aspects and basic techniques. From there, students gradually acquire the skills connected with yacht design. 

Starting from a study of the history and current scenarios of the nautical sector, students will go on to study the market and obtain more detail knowledge of the different types of boats. They acquire significant knowledge of materials, technologies and production methods, including through hands-on experience in a shipyard. They are provided with technical drawing and design tools, as well.

A further strength of this Master course is the fact that is delivered on two campuses, Turin and Venice. This offers participants a dual scenario, in which both cities represent an important aspect of the themes the course is focused on: the tradition of the automotive industry on the one hand, and the maritime vocation on the other. 

The training course ends with a Thesis Project, developed on a brief given by a boatyard or a design studio.

Who is it for?

The admission of the Master is open to graduates in Architecture, Engineering and in the field of Design (Transportation, Interior, Product), as well as professionals in the sector seeking to apply their skills in this specific area.

yacht interior design degree

Federica Bertolini

Style Manager - Azimut Yachts Thesis Supervisor

Course Coordinator

yacht interior design degree

Lorenzo Ciuffatelli

Transportation Designer - Pinifarina

yacht interior design degree

Andrea Sculati

Founder and Director - Sculati & Partners

yacht interior design degree

Luca Sordelli

Marketing and Communication Manager - Harken Italy, Journalist - Wired, Barche, Nautech

yacht interior design degree

Nicola Scopelliti

Freelance Yacht Designer & Co-founder - Scopelliti Rasia Architetti

yacht interior design degree

Lorenzo Penato

yacht interior design degree

Camilla Pierucci

Naval and Nautical designer

yacht interior design degree

Stefano D'Adamo

Style Coordinator - Azimut Yachts

yacht interior design degree

Roberto Tarozzo

Engineering Office Manager / Project Manager - Azimut-Benetti

yacht interior design degree

Sergio Cutolo

Founder and Owner - Hydro Tec

yacht interior design degree

Alessandra De Luca

Training & Development Manager - Azimut-Benetti

yacht interior design degree

Umberto Maria Fossati

Founder and Director - Fossati design Bureau

Website LinkedIn

yacht interior design degree

88 Dragon - Sport Fly

yacht interior design degree

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09 October 2024

Postgraduate Welcome Event — IED Barcelona 2024

The welcome event for the students of the Master's, Postgraduate and Specialization Courses from the October intake took place on 3 and 4 October.

yacht interior design degree

Lorenzo Bruscaglioni, IED Milano professor, participates in the Lighting Day Conference in Tbilisi, Georgia

IED supported Lighting Day Conference organized by AT Architect hosted in Design Institute

27 September 2024

IED Barcelona inaugurates the 2024-2025 academic year with 292 undergraduate students of 51 nationalities

The Welcome Event and Welcome Week gave new students their first contact with the IED vision.

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Andrea Marchesi, Director of IED Barcelona, and Product Design alumnus Mina Barchi presented projects related to the blue economy and sustainability at the event ‘I design also for the sea’.

Inclusive Design: designing accessible products and services

20 September 2024

Inclusive Design: designing accessible products and services

Discover the principles and benefits of inclusive design, the approach that seeks to make products, services and environments accessible to everyone.

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18 September 2024

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10 September 2024

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IED Torino celebrates 30 years of Transportation Design at the Salone Auto Torino with a display in Piazza Castello and a special exhibition at OGR.

27 August 2024

Rethinking the role of the laundrette to foster textile circularity from the perspective of design

Together with GirbauLAB, eight interdisciplinary teams of IED Barcelona students have presented a range of innovative proposals that redefine the experience of these spaces, contributing to the circular economy.

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24 July 2024

IED Turin Graduates Its First Master's Students in Transdisciplinary Design. Mobility

Eight international students completed a thesis in collaboration with the Metropolitan City of Turin and the Links Foundation, aimed at improving regional mobility in Piedmont.

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Barcelona Design Week + IED Barcelona Workshop: Taking care of water. Strategic Design and Innovation

22 October 2024 - 22 October 2024 • Barcelona

Barcelona Design Week + IED Barcelona Workshop: Taking care of water. Strategic Design and Innovation

A co-creation lab led by the teacher and expert in innovation and future thinking John V. Wilkshire to address the water challenge from the design perspective. It will take place on 22 October at 4 pm at the Point One facilities.

Barcelona Design Week + IED Barcelona Design Exhibition: Strategy, Nature, Water  

Barcelona Design Week + IED Barcelona Design Exhibition: Strategy, Nature, Water  

On 22 October, IED Barcelona, Associate Venue of Barcelona Design Week, will present a triple exhibition at the Point One facilities: Best Grad Projects + Latam Creative Talent + Fusion Point Challenge of Water.

Yanko Design - Modern Industrial Design News

Sailing in Style: Designing Yacht Interiors with Elegance and Sophistication

yacht interior design degree

Creating yacht interiors involves the integration of luxury, innovation, and practicality to create a functional and elegant space, that seamlessly combines interior design, product design, and naval architecture. Each design element plays an important role in enhancing the onboard luxury experience and ensuring exceptional performance across diverse sea conditions. In yacht design, prioritizing functionality involves integrating innovative features, efficient layouts, and practical amenities to enhance usability, comfort, and performance during various cruising and leisure scenarios. These design principles form the foundation of yacht interiors.

Image courtesy of: RossHelen

1. Sophisticated Aesthetics

In luxury yacht design, it is important to prioritize opulence, comfort, and extravagant amenities to ensure a high-end experience for passengers. Futuristic and sophisticated aesthetics can be achieved by integrating sleek lines, glass facades, and cutting-edge technology. A crucial element in crafting an opulent onboard ambiance is integrating luxury yacht features like spacious cabins, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and custom furnishings tailored to suit different tastes.

yacht interior design degree

Designer: Samuele Errico Piccarini

The Pininfarina Capitolo catamaran exudes luxury and airiness with its transparent hull, offering stylish leisure and secluded relaxation spaces. Designed by Pininfarina in collaboration with automotive and yacht designers, it caters to the preferences of influential clients like Ryu Cardoso, featuring an open-plan layout flooded with light and panoramic views of the sea and ensuring a sleek and unparalleled leisure experience on serene waters.

2. Maximize Space

Space optimization is paramount on yachts due to their limited square footage, ensuring efficient space management without sacrificing style. This involves embracing multi-functional design principles, where furniture serves more than one purpose.

yacht interior design degree

Design: TISG

Explore the opulent interior of ‘This Is It’, the largest motor catamaran soon to grace the seas. Crafted by The Italian Sea Group’s Tecnomar brand, this 43.5-meter marvel is poised for a spectacular debut at the Monaco Yacht Show. With an exterior reminiscent of mythical sea creatures, its meticulously engineered design enhances hydrodynamic efficiency, while expansive glass surfaces not only elevate aesthetics but also reduce weight, contributing to fuel efficiency. Hosting up to 12 guests, the catamaran boasts well-lit cabins with skylights, connected to terraces overlooking lush vertical gardens. The main lounge seamlessly transitions to an outdoor space featuring a dining area, bar, game zone, and pool. An upper deck sanctuary offers a sauna, sensorial shower, and playroom.

3. Optimize Storage

Given the limited space on a yacht, it’s important to make the most of available storage. Custom furniture offering built-in storage solutions, such as storage beds, ottomans, and sofas with storage compartments, can help keep belongings organized while maximizing space.

yacht interior design degree

Image courtesy of: wirestock

4. Pay Attention to the Flooring

The flooring in yacht interiors is essential, as it must be both visually appealing and functional. Selecting the appropriate flooring can instantly improve the design and create a warmer atmosphere. Opting for premium materials like teak, marble, or high-quality faux wood finishes ensures durability in a compact space.

yacht interior design degree

Image courtesy of: Mint_Images

5. Maximize Natural Light

Utilizing natural light aboard enhances the yacht’s environment. Strategically placed windows, skylights, and open layouts not only adds a sense of spaciousness but also create a more uplifting ambiance for passengers and guests.

yacht interior design degree

Designer: Lazzarini Design

This innovative superyacht by Lazzarini Design challenges norms with its hollowed-out center, offering a unique sun deck and visual allure. Spanning 69 meters with three decks concealed within, it’s speculated to feature a hybrid propulsion system, possibly integrating solar panels. Despite space constraints, the expansive deck provides ample room for socializing and panoramic views, making it the perfect choice for those seeking attention-worthy aesthetics on serene waters.

6. Indoor-Outdoor Integration

Yacht design should blend indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly, ensuring a smooth transition from inside to out. Compact features like foldable glass doors, expansive decks, and designated outdoor lounging areas create a fluid connection between the yacht’s interior and the sea, fostering a feeling of freedom and relaxation for guests within a compact setting.

yacht interior design degree

Designer: Ali Cam

This ultra-luxurious superyacht, known as The Arc, stands out with its lower-level deck adorned with panoramic glass walls. Designed for discerning individuals seeking ultimate comfort and style, The Arc features organic contours juxtaposed with sharp edges, resembling a hypercar of the sea. Its three levels serve distinct purposes, with the lower deck providing breathtaking sea views through transparent glass facades. On the second level, guests can bask in the sun on an open deck, while the top level features a swimming pool and relaxation area, with the main sail serving as a focal point. The yacht’s design theme of black and titanium grey tones exudes luxury and speed, with the lower-level deck offering both open sea views and protection from the elements, ensuring unparalleled comfort in any weather condition.

7. Integrate Intelligent Technology

Adding smart technology like modern entertainment systems, automated lighting, advanced navigation tools, and safety features improves the onboard experience, ensuring comfort and convenience for passengers.

yacht interior design degree

8. Custom Detailing

A yacht project should reflect the owners’ personalities through personalized touches, achieved by collaborating closely with skilled artisans and designers. A balance in shapes, colors, and volumes is essential in yacht interiors to ensure elegance and comfort. Additionally, integrating vintage accessories can create a cozy atmosphere with a lived-in vibe.

yacht interior design degree

Designer: Max Zhivov

The Drakkar S, an 85-foot superyacht by Max Zhivov, offers smartphone-controlled autonomous sailing reminiscent of a Tesla for the oceans. Inspired by Viking longships, it features advanced autopilot and AI navigation systems, controllable via a smartphone app. Powered by solar panels for emission-free travel, it integrates amenities like a beach club, dining salon, and spacious cabins for eight guests, promising a seamless and sustainable maritime adventure.

9. Eco-Conscious Design

With an increase in awareness about the environment, yacht design needs to focus on sustainability. By using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and responsible waste management, the yacht can reduce its environmental impact without sacrificing luxury or style.

yacht interior design degree

Designers: Zaha Hadid Architects and Rossinavi

Zaha Hadid Architects has designed the Oneiric, a luxury yacht powered entirely by solar energy. This innovative twin-hulled catamaran features a fluid design and solar-paneled roof, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Developed in partnership with Rossinavi, it offers spacious interiors and energy-efficient multihulls. The yacht’s hybrid power system allows for silent, emissions-free cruising and can accommodate up to 8 guests and 6 crew members. With its sustainable technology and elegant design, the Oneiric redefines luxury yachting.

10. Material Choices

Using high-quality materials is crucial for crafting a luxurious and durable yacht. Premium materials like fine wood, luxurious fabrics, and lavish finishes add elegance to every part of the yacht, enhancing the onboard experience. Strong, UV-resistant fabrics and rugs, alongside premium upholstery like leather or marine-grade fabrics, enhance comfort and style in yacht interiors, ideal for relaxation and entertainment. It’s advisable to avoid using metal in the interiors as it rusts quickly in salt-laden air.

yacht interior design degree

Designer: Waterstudio.NL

The Arkup 75, the world’s premier solar-powered luxury yacht, doubles as a floating villa, offering unparalleled opulence and sustainability. Developed by Waterstudio.NL and Arkup, it features a 75-foot length and 4,350 sqft living space across two levels, complete with four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and a spacious kitchen. Equipped with solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system, it enables off-grid living while withstanding extreme weather conditions. Designed for eco-conscious buyers, it emphasizes energy efficiency, connectivity, and safety, ensuring a luxurious and environmentally friendly lifestyle on the water.

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yacht interior design degree

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Executive Interior Yacht Design

The decades-long experience of the Specializing Master’s Degree Course in Yacht Design at the Politecnico di Milano has led to the creation of the new postgraduate course in Executive Interior Yacht Design dedicated to professionals and young graduates who intend to deepen their knowledge of nautical and naval outfitting with a focus on the Italian yacht and superyacht market. The course responds to the request of numerous nautical subcontracting companies and design studios, which in recent years have been looking for specialised figures in executive design to support the great growth that the Italian shipbuilding industry has been experiencing for the past five years.

The Executive Interior Yacht Design course at the Politecnico di Milano provides the tools to manage the design and construction process of naval and nautical interiors , from the project brief to the definition of the general plans and executive details of interior fittings, thanks to the integrated management of interior and exterior design languages, materials and on-board fitting techniques, aspects of ergonomics, naval engineering and construction techniques, and plant equipment. The course is aimed at graduates in architecture and interior design as well as professionals in the furniture sector, thanks to didactics designed to adapt to the needs of professionals, freelance designers and recent graduates.

The course is aimed at graduates in architecture and interior design and professionals in the furniture sector, thanks to teaching designed to adapt to the needs of professionals, freelance designers, and recent graduates.

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yacht interior design degree

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The course is aimed at interior design and architecture professionals who want to delve into all aspects of interior design for yachts (motor yachts and superyachts) and cruise ships with a special focus on materials and techniques for outfitting and shipbuilding. The subject of study and design will be the general plans of yachts as well as the layout of interior spaces and customised furnishing elements.

Participation in the Advanced Course offers the achievement of the following training goals:

  • Design development (ability to work in terms of problem setting and problem solving for the definition of boat and cruise ship interiors from concept to detailed design);
  • Development of specialised technical skills for the design of on-board spaces and customised furniture solutions;
  • Acquisition of the principles, procedures, methods and techniques for fitting out naval and nautical interiors;
  • Development of skills related to the executive definition of interiors in both 3D and 2D drafting for production management and fit-out supply;
  • Development of skills related to site organisation for fit-out and decor phases;
  • Development of the ability to work in a team and to present oneself authoritatively in the world of professions;
  • Ability to manage team conflicts and to foster creativity processes.

Didactic Modules

Naval architecture, construction, and nautical installations : the module provides the tools to understand the different hull shapes and the relationship with performance in navigation and the liveability of on-board spaces, and to know how to design fittings for vessels with different structural morphologies. In addition, the module will provide the knowledge to understand the technical spaces dedicated to on-board systems impacting on the living space layout and the aesthetics of furnishing finishes, as well as the management of lighting and air-conditioning aspects.

Naval and nautical interior design : knowing how to design a nautical outfitting from its general plans to the detail of the furniture finishes is the central theme of this module, which will accompany participants in project-works dedicated to the realisation of interior and exterior outfitting concepts, on-board ergonomics, and the technical design of cabins and common areas. Technical executive drawing: the module provides the tools to manage the drafting of furniture executive projects, from the design of the executive layout in 3D to 2D drawing for production and subcontracting. The module will include both theoretical lessons and an approach to parametric 3D software for the design of site executives, thanks to exercises guided by professionals of the sector.

Technology for the preparation of naval and nautical interiors : through case study lectures, visits to subcontracting production plants and visits on board yachts under construction, the module will guide course participants in the understanding of naval and nautical outfitting techniques with a focus on the theme of ballasting, materials and techniques for interior and exterior fittings on board, new technologies for the sensory expression of materials and furnishing finishes, and accessories dedicated to nautical outfitting.

Internship : the course is completed by an internship in Italian shipbuilding and subcontracting companies, such as yacht design and interior design studios dedicated to the naval sector, shipyards, and companies producing furniture and accessories for the nautical sector.

Title Released

At the end of the Course, a Certificate of Participation in the Executive Interior Yacht Design Advanced Training Course will be awarded, with the related achievement of 30 CFU.

Employment Opportunities

The Italian nautical and naval sector is constantly growing and has seen an increasingly critical demand in recent years for specialised figures in the executive design of on-board fittings, whether for interiors or outdoor spaces.

In addition, subcontracting and accessory and outfitting companies are at the heart of the international industry in which Italy leads the sector with more than 70 per cent of boats over 30 metres produced worldwide.

Candidates attending the advanced course will find employment opportunities in nautical and naval interior design studios or in shipyards and companies in the nautical industry for customised interior and exterior fittings . Possible areas of professional involvement are: concept design, styling, decor, and product customisation; engineering; interior design; project and process management; production control and quality control during fitting out, finishing and delivery.

Requirements

The advanced course is open to candidates with a degree or Master’s/Specialist degree or First or Second Level Academic Diploma in Architecture, Engineering, Industrial Design. The commission reserves the right to admit candidates in possession of the above-mentioned qualifications in disciplines other than those specified above, should the master’s degree be a completion of the candidate’s training or professional skills and experience.

Admission to the Course is subject to passing a technical-motivational interview on site or via Skype to assess the candidate’s curriculum vitae and motivation.

To participate in the selections, please complete the online application form by the following deadline: September 1, 2025

The course costs €7,500 • € 100,00 – registration fee to Politecnico di Milano, • € 7.400,00 – participation fee.

EARLY BIRD -10% (n.6) The promotion for those who have clear ideas, know which educational path can enrich their future, and can’t wait to get back to the classroom.

Deadline application: within May 16, 2025 Deadline for sending the signed contract and payment of the deposit of the participation fee: within May 30, 2025

FAMILY SUPPORT: -50% A chance to gift your siblings the encouragement they need to invest in their future.

POLI.NETWORK: -50% A promotion designed to strengthen the bond and identity among members of the Politecnico di Milano community.

BUSINESS BOOST The discount designed for companies that recognize training as a crucial factor for growth.

The “Business Boost” discount provides a variable reduction on the participation fee for two or more employees in catalog courses. Specifically, the discount amounts to:

  • 15% on the participation fee for the second employee’s enrollment
  • 20% on the participation fee for the third employee’s enrollment
  • 25% on the participation fee from the fourth employee’s enrollment onwards

Furthermore, companies that purchase more than one Course for two or more employees in the same calendar year can access an additional 10% discount on the total.

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yacht interior design degree

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