Can it stand up to the sea?
At Catran Naval Architect we deliver specialized Finite Element Analysis (FEA)services tailored to the unique demands of yacht design and marine engineering. Whether you're designing a high-performance racing yacht, refitting a classic cruiser, or validating structural changes, we help you move forward with confidence, precision, and peace of mind.
Why FEA is Critical in Yacht Design?
Modern yachts are expected to be light, fast, safe, and beautiful—all while handling the demanding loads of open water, sail forces, and onboard systems. FEA empowers naval architects and yacht designers to simulate how materials and structures perform under real-world marine conditions, well before anything hits the water. With FEA, we evaluate stress distribution, predict fatigue life, and verify compliance with class society standards like DNV, Lloyd’s Register, or RINA. Whether you're working with composite laminates, aluminium, or stainless steel, our simulations help you optimize your designs, avoid overengineering, and ensure long-term reliability.
Our FEA Capabilities:
Our team provides a comprehensive range of FEA services geared specifically for yacht structures and systems:
- Linear and Nonlinear Structural Analysis Simulate hulls, decks, and appendages under static and dynamic loads—accounting for complex boundary conditions, large deformations, and contact mechanics where needed.
- Fatigue and Fracture Mechanics Analyse key load paths and joints for long-term durability under cyclic loads from sailing and wave action.
- Modal and Vibration Analysis Evaluate the natural frequencies and mode shapes of structures and equipment mounts to prevent unwanted vibrations and improve onboard comfort.
- Thermal and Thermo-Mechanical Analysis Assess how temperature changes affect engine rooms, exhaust systems, and enclosed structures.
- Sailing and Hydrodynamic Load Mapping Apply realistic loads from mast compression, keel forces, and sea states based on sailing scenarios and client input.
What Makes Us Different:
We combine a solid foundation in engineering science with real-world experience in yacht design and construction. Whether you're optimizing a hull for performance or reinforcing a deck structure for added safety, we focus on delivering practical, well-communicated insights—not just pretty simulations.
Here’s what you get when you work with us:
- Yacht-Savvy Engineers
- We understand the nuances of performance, aesthetics, material selection, and classification compliance in yacht design.
- Straightforward Communication
- You get reports written in clear, actionable language—complete with visualizations, stress plots, and prioritized recommendations.
- Flexible Collaboration
- Whether you're a naval architect, design office, or boatbuilder, we integrate smoothly into your workflow and project timelines.
Typical Projects We Support
- Hull and deck structure validation for custom yachts
- Keel and mast base reinforcement design
- Composite bulkhead and stringer evaluations
- Superstructure opening and window framing checks
- Engine bed and propulsion mount stress analysis
- Refit projects and structural impact assessments
Our Tools
- We leverage Strand7, a robust and widely-used structural analysis tool with powerful capabilities for modeling marine structures, composites, and nonlinear behavior. For cloud-based collaboration and rapid iterations, we also use SimScale, which allows us to run advanced simulations and share interactive results directly with clients—no software installation required. Both platforms enable us to work flexibly with your CAD models, apply marine-specific load cases, and deliver reliable, verifiable results that support design decisions and class submissions.
Let’s Talk About Your Project?
If you're designing, refitting, or certifying a yacht and need dependable structural insight, we’re here to help. Whether you’re at concept stage or halfway through a build, FEA can help you refine your design and move forward with confidence.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or request a quote
Frequently Asked Questions
FEA is a simulation method used to predict how structural components respond to physical forces like wave loads, wind pressure, and mechanical stresses. In yacht engineering, FEA is crucial for validating hull integrity, optimizing lightweight structures, ensuring compliance with classification standards, and improving safety and performance—all before a prototype hits the water.
- FEA can be applied to nearly every part of a yacht, including:
- Hull and deck structures under hydrodynamic and impact loads
- Keel and rudder assemblies under sailing or grounding conditions
- Bulkheads and internal frames for structural reinforcement
- Composite laminates and sandwich panels for material optimization
- Mast and rigging components under load cases like hoisting or sailing This allows for design refinements that enhance strength while reducing weight.
For us to start, you'll need to supply:
- 3D CAD models of the yacht or specific components
- Material specifications (e.g., composite layups, metals, core materials)
- Load cases and boundary conditions (e.g., wave loads, sailing forces, point loads)
- Design goals (e.g., weight savings, class compliance, safety margins) We’ll use this data to perform accurate simulations and provide actionable design feedback