Smarter, Greener, Built for the sea
Naval Architecture
At Catran Naval Architects we deliver full-spectrum naval architecture services for vessels of all kinds—workboats, commercial craft, and custom yachts. Whether you're starting a new build, refitting an existing vessel, or aiming for better efficiency and sustainability, we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence.
We combine engineering expertise with a modern, eco-conscious approach to marine design. From optimized hulls to reduced emissions, our focus is on creating vessels that not only perform well—but perform responsibly.
What we do
At Catran Naval Architect we deliver full-spectrum naval architecture services for vessels of all kinds—workboats, commercial craft, and custom yachts. Whether you're starting a new build, refitting an existing vessel, or aiming for better efficiency and sustainability, we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence.
We combine engineering expertise with a modern, eco-conscious approach to marine design. From optimized hulls to reduced emissions, our focus is on creating vessels that not only perform well—but perform responsibly.
1. Yacht & Pleasure Craft Design
Luxury doesn’t have to come at the expense of efficiency. We specialize in custom yacht designs that combine performance, aesthetics, and sustainability. From low-resistance hulls to hybrid propulsion layouts, we work with owners, stylists, and builders to design vessels that reflect both your vision and your values.
2. Commercial Vessel Design
From ferries and patrol boats to workboats and crew vessels, we design tough, practical craft built for reliability and efficiency. We help operators reduce fuel consumption, improve hull performance, and meet modern environmental standards without sacrificing functionality.
3. Stability, Hydrostatics & Performance
We provide full hydrostatic and stability assessments, including intact and damaged conditions, in compliance with flag state and class society requirements. Our performance predictions also support fuel-efficient routing and power optimization.
4. Structural Design & Modifications
Whether it’s a new build or a major retrofit, our structural designs emphasize strength, safety, and weight efficiency. For eco-minded clients, we can explore the use of alternative materials and lightweight construction strategies to reduce environmental impact.
5. Refits, Upgrades & Conversions
Modernizing a vessel is a great opportunity to make it more sustainable. We support propulsion upgrades, hybrid-electric conversions, solar integration, energy storage, and fuel efficiency retrofits—especially popular in both yachts and passenger craft.
6. CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics)
CFD allows us to fine-tune hull performance by simulating water flow, resistance, and wake patterns. We use it to reduce drag, improve fuel economy, and evaluate energy-saving modifications before they’re ever built. It’s a smart, data-driven way to design for efficiency.
7. FEA (Finite Element Analysis)
FEA helps us analyze structural stresses and deformations with high precision. By identifying potential issues early, we reduce material waste and overdesign—leading to lighter, leaner, and greener builds without compromising safety.
8. Regulatory Compliance & Green Standards
We handle all aspects of regulatory compliance with class societies and flag states. We also support vessels aiming to meet or exceed green certifications, including MARPOL Annex VI (air emissions), EEDI requirements, and other environmental guidelines.
9. Sustainability Consulting
Looking to make your vessel greener but not sure where to start? We offer dedicated sustainability reviews, including fuel-saving strategies, lifecycle assessments, and guidance on new propulsion technologies. Our goal is to help you reduce your vessel’s impact without disrupting your operations or breaking your budget.
Why work with us?
We’re a small, experienced team with a passion for smart design and real-world results. We don’t just design vessels—we solve problems, reduce waste, and create solutions that last.
- Balanced Design Approach – Performance, comfort, and sustainability are built into every project.
- Modern Tools & Methods – Rhino, Orca3D, CFD solvers, Maxsurf, FEA, and more.
- Yacht & Commercial Expertise – From luxury builds to high-uptime service craft, we’ve got the range.
Eco-Minded Options – We’ll show you where sustainable choices make the most sense—and how to implement them.
Let’s Build Better Boats
Whether you’re designing a clean, modern yacht or upgrading a fleet of workboats, we’re ready to help you build something that performs beautifully and treads a little lighter on the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Naval architects are responsible for the technical foundation of a vessel. They ensure that the yacht or boat will float, be stable, perform efficiently, and meet safety and regulatory standards. Their work includes designing the hull form, calculating stability and weight distribution, analyzing performance, and integrating structural and propulsion systems.
Key services often include:
- Hull design and optimization.
- Stability and weight assessments.
- Hydrodynamic and performance analysis.
- Structural design and scantling calculations.
- Regulatory compliance support (classification societies, flag state).
- Tank testing or CFD simulations (if required).
Naval architecture ensures the vessel is not only beautiful but also safe, seaworthy, and efficient. Proper engineering early on prevents design flaws, improves comfort and performance, and helps avoid costly corrections later in the build process. It's essential for aligning aesthetics with functionality and safety