Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Boat Aesthetics and Style Course
Immerse yourself in the world of nautical design, exploring everything from fundamental principles to the latest trends. Learn to transform spaces, optimizing functionality and elegance in every detail. Master the use of…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts7 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Boat Aesthetics and Style Course?
The Boat Aesthetics and Style Course
Immerse yourself in the world of nautical design, exploring everything from fundamental principles to the latest trends. Learn to transform spaces, optimizing functionality and elegance in every detail. Master the use of innovative materials, strategic lighting, and customization techniques to create unique and sophisticated environments. This program provides you with the necessary tools to excel in the interior and exterior design of all types of vessels, from luxury yachts to classic sailboats.
Differentiating Advantages
- 360° Design: addresses both interiors and exteriors, creating complete visual harmony.
- Materials and Finishes: discover the most innovative and sustainable options for boats.
- Customization: learn to adapt each project to the specific needs and tastes of the client.
- Design Software: familiarize yourself with digital tools for visualizing and presenting projects.
- Shipyard Visits: discover firsthand the construction and design process in the naval industry.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
09-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Master Design: Learn the fundamental principles of nautical aesthetics and the latest trends in boat styling.
- Specialized Software: Use computer-aided design (CAD) tools to create professional renderings and detailed plans.
- Innovative Materials: Discover the properties and applications of cutting-edge materials for boat interiors and exteriors.
- Personalization and Comfort: Learn to adapt the design to the client's needs, maximizing comfort and functionality in the space.
- Sustainability: Integrate eco-design criteria and the selection of environmentally friendly materials into your projects.
- Boost your career as a naval designer and create unique and attractive vessels.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of naval aesthetic design, formal identity of the boat and principles of visual composition applied to the maritime environment
- Nautical aesthetics concept: function, perception, visual language and identity construction in recreational boats, work and representation
- Principles of formal composition in naval design: proportion, balance, rhythm, symmetry, visual tension and continuity of lines
- Relationship between the shape of the hull, superstructure and aesthetic character of the boat: visual reading, presence and global coherence
- Influence of the boat typology in its style: yachts, sailboats, catamarans, speedboats, explorer yachts and classic units
- Interaction between aesthetics, functionality and naval architecture: compatibility between formal beauty, operability and technical conditions
02
Historical evolution of the style in boats, design schools and formal references in nautical construction
- Historical evolution of naval aesthetics: from classic wooden boats to high-performance contemporary languages
- Classic boats and formal legacy: proportions, ornaments, decks, sterns and details that marked historic nautical design styles
- Contemporary naval design schools: Mediterranean, Nordic, British, American and international approaches to luxury and performance
- Influence of materials and construction technologies on the exterior and interior aesthetics of boats
- Formal trends of the 20th and 21st centuries: clean lines, tense surfaces, glass-metal integration and emotional design in the nautical sector
03
Formal external language of the boat: lines, volumes, colour, finishes and visual elements of identity
- Exterior line design: Sheer line, side profile, bow, stern, freeboard and harmony between dynamism and visual elegance
- Treatment of volumes and superstructures: balance between visual mass, transparency, height and compositional fluency
- Use of colour in boats: colour palettes, contrast, perception of size, sophistication and coherence with the marine environment
- Exterior materials and finishes: paint, gelcoat, hardwood, polished steel, aluminium, composite and aesthetic expression of each surface
- Distinctive detail design: windows, handrails, exterior lighting, names, emblems and elements of visual identity
04
Interior style, space atmosphere and aesthetic coherence between exterior and interior design in boats
- Principles of style Interior Nautical: visual continuity, comfort, functional luxury and adaptation of aesthetic language to living space
- Relationship between exterior and interior design: conceptual coherence, materials, colours and formal narrative of the nautical project
- Configuration of interior atmospheres: lighting, texture, proportion, spatial perception and sensory experience on board
- Interior styles on boats: classic, contemporary, minimalist, Mediterranean, technical-functional and luxury Yacht Design
- Integration of furniture, coatings, textiles and decorative pieces with criteria of sophistication, durability and marine environment
05
Capstone Project for aesthetic analysis, definition of style and conceptual development of a boat with its own visual identity
- Selection of the study case: Typology of boat, user profile, market segment and image and style objectives
- Analysis of formal references and construction of the aesthetic concept: inspiration, visual language, materials and design narrative
- Definition of the exterior and interior style of the boat: compositional coherence, colour, finishes, details and general atmosphere
- Preparation of conceptual panels, visual schemes and criteria for formal justification of the stylistic project
- Assessment of coherence between aesthetics, functionality, brand identity and feasibility of the proposed design
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Naval designers and architects looking to delve deeper into trends, innovative materials, and space optimization on boats.Boat owners interested in customizing and modernizing their boats with a focus on functionality and aesthetics.Nautical professionals (brokers, shipyards, etc.) who want to expand their knowledge to offer better advice and services to their clients.Design and nautical stu
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Apply principles of nautical design and aesthetics
- 02Select and apply suitable materials for finishes and coatings
- 03Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on the vessel's aesthetics
- 04Coordinate and supervise customization and aesthetic refurbishment projects
- 05Evaluate and diagnose the aesthetic condition of boats
- 06Managing budgets and resources to optimize the aesthetics and style of boats
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Nautical Interior Designer: Creation and customization of interior spaces for recreational and professional vessels.
02Yacht Decorator: Selection of materials, furniture, and accessories for luxury vessels.
03Nautical Upholsterer: Manufacturing and repair of upholstery for boat interiors and exteriors.
04Boat Painter: Preparation and application of paints and protective coatings to hulls and superstructures.
05Classic Boat Restorer: Restoration and preservation of the original aesthetics of vintage boats.
06Nautical Vinyl and Signage Specialist: Design and installation of decorative vinyl and signage for boats.
07Boat Image Consultant: Advising on the exterior and interior image of Boats.
08Refurbishment and Refurbishment Project Manager: Coordination of aesthetic improvement projects on boats.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Aesthetics create an emotional connection, expressing identity, status, or simple visual pleasure, attracting admiration and reflecting the personality of the owner or the culture to which they belong.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Lines, hull shape, superstructure, materials, finishes, details and overall harmony.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Training in design (Graphic, Industrial, Interior), Architecture, Fine Arts, or similar; or demonstrable experience in boat design and refitting.Specific Knowledge:Proficiency in design software (CAD, 3D), knowledge of nautical materials, naval design trends, and safety regulations.Documentation:Portfolio of work (boat designs, renderings, projects), updated CV, cover letter.Additional Skills:Ability to communicate with clients and multidisciplinary teams, creativity, attention to detail, language skills (English preferred).```
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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