Introduction to Naval Design Course
Why this course?
The Introduction to Naval Design
This course provides you with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of naval architecture. You will learn to understand and apply the key concepts of stability, structural strength, and hydrodynamics, crucial for the design of safe and efficient vessels. This program introduces you to the world of naval design, from the initial conception to the creation of technical drawings, using specialized software tools.
This course provides you with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of naval architecture. You will learn to understand and apply the key concepts of stability, structural strength, and hydrodynamics, crucial for the design of safe and efficient vessels.
What will you learn?
- Theoretical Foundations: Static and dynamic stability, resistance calculations, behavior in water.
- Design Process: Stages of naval design, from defining requirements to final documentation.
- CAD Software: Introduction to computer-aided design tools for creating 3D models and technical drawings.
- Regulations and Standards: Knowledge of maritime regulations and classification standards applicable to naval design.
- Case Studies: Analysis of real-world design examples of different types of vessels.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Cursos
- Hours: 150 H
- Start date: 25-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Naval engineering students seeking a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of ship design.
- Junior engineers wishing to specialize in naval design and gain practical experience in the process.
- Maritime industry professionals needing a general understanding of naval design for better decision-making.
- Sailing enthusiasts wishing to explore the world of ship design and understand the technical aspects involved.
- Industrial designers seeking to expand their skills into the field of naval design and create innovative vessels.
Learning flexibility
Ideal for professionals and students: modular and accessible content 24/7, discussion forums and personalized support for learning at your own pace.
Objectives and competencies
Interpreting naval plans and technical specifications:
“Identify symbols, dimensions, materials, and tolerances, understanding the functionality of the represented systems.”
Understanding the principles of stability and buoyancy of a vessel:
“Evaluate weight distribution, center of gravity, and the effect of load on stability, anticipating risks due to changes in navigation conditions.”
Identify the structural components of a ship and their function:
“Describe the function of the hull, superstructure, propulsion system, steering, and loading/unloading systems.”
Apply design criteria to optimize the hydrodynamic efficiency of a vessel:
“Implement optimizations to hull shape, propeller selection and ballast management systems, evaluating their impact on drag and fuel consumption.”
Select the appropriate materials for shipbuilding considering strength, durability, and cost:
“To evaluate mechanical properties, corrosion, weldability and environmental impact, optimizing the useful life and life cycle of the vessel.”
Develop the ability to conceptualize and graphically represent the shape of a ship:
“Model the hull lines and relevant structures using naval CAD software, understanding the influence of hydrodynamics and stability.”
Curriculum - Modules
1.1 What is naval design: disciplines, phases (conceptual–basic–detailed) and deliverables.
1.2 Vessel typologies: merchant ships, passenger ships, yachts, fishing vessels, defense vessels, and offshore vessels.
1.3 Ship parts and essential naval terminology (hull, deck, frames, bulkheads).
1.4 Owner/operator requirements: mission, route, range, speed, payload and restrictions.
1.5 Main dimensions (L, B, T, D) and shape coefficients (Cb, Cp, Cm).
1.6 Principles of buoyancy and stability: thrust, center of buoyancy, center of gravity.
1.7 Resistance and propulsion: notions of power and efficiency.
1.8 Basic naval structure: stresses, types of joints and reading of simple plans.
1.9 Standards and classification: role of classification societies and general requirements.
1.10 Life cycle: design, construction, operation, maintenance and retrofit.
2.1 Project brief: objectives, constraints, and acceptance criteria.
2.2 Weight and distribution estimation (lightship, deadweight) in the conceptual phase.
2.3 Capacity estimation: volume, holds, tanks, passenger capacity, and habitability.
2.4 Selection of main dimensions and L/B and B/T ratios according to typology. 2.5 Hull Type Selection: Displacement, Semi-displacement, Planing.
2.6 Preliminary Speed and Power Profile: Relationship with Resistance and Consumption.
2.7 Operational Restrictions: Draft, Ports, Channels, Height/Bridge Limitations.
2.8 Requirements of Security: basic compartmentalization, evacuation, and redundancies.
2.9 Conceptual design deliverables: preliminary GA, baseline specification, and risks.
2.10 Change management: scope control and early decisions.
3.1 Archimedes’ Principle applied to ships: displacement and drafts.
3.2 Center of buoyancy (B) and center of gravity (G): interpretation and effects.
3.3 Metacenter (M) and GM: initial stability and practical reading.
3.4 Hydrostatic curves: how 3.5 Intact stability: GZ concepts, area under curve, and basic criteria.
3.6 Effect of free surfaces on tanks: impact and mitigation.
3.7 Loading and stowage: how it affects stability and safety.
3.8 Ballast: Objectives, operation, and design implications.
3.9 Introduction to fault stability: compartmentalization and buoyancy margin.
3.10 Basic stability report: structure, assumptions, and conclusions.
4.1 Line plans: sections, waterlines, buttocks; Reading and interpretation.
4.2 Shape coefficients: how they guide hull performance.
4.3 Bow, stern, and knee: influence on strength and behavior.
4.4 Volume distribution and buoyancy: longitudinal balance and trim.
4.5 Design of bilges, bulbs and keels: function and compromises.
4.6 Hull materials: steel, aluminum, composites; Impact on shape and weight.
4.7 Freeboard and load lines: concepts and design consequences.
4.8 Protection and finishes: paint, antifouling, and corrosion (overview).
4.9 Tolerances and manufacturing: how the shipyard influences shape design.
4.10 Geometric change control: consistency between lines, weights and stability.
5.1 Drag components: friction, shape, waves, and appendages.
5.2 Froude number and operating regime: displacement vs. semi-planing.
5.3 Preliminary power estimate: simplified methods and assumptions.
5.4 Propulsion systems: conventional propeller, waterjet, pod; Initial selection criteria.
5.5 Hull-propeller interaction: wake, thrust, and losses.
5.6 Propulsive efficiency: how to interpret it in the conceptual phase.
5.7 Rudder and maneuverability: notions of directional control.
5.8 Consumption and Autonomy: relationship with power, speed, and fuel capacity.
5.9 Cavitation and vibration: concepts and effects in design.
5.10 Preliminary deliverables: power sheet, operating profiles, and risks.
6.1 Global loads: hogging/sagging, longitudinal and shear stresses.
6.2 Structural elements: keel, frames, ribs, beams, reinforcements.
6.3 Panels and stiffening: buckling and scantling concepts (intro).
6.4 Structural materials: basic properties and selection by type. 6.5 Connections: welding, rivets, adhesives (composites), and quality criteria.
6.6 Compartmentalization: watertight bulkheads and safety functions.
6.7 Roofs and superstructure: structural and habitability role.
6.8 Structural vibrations: causes and mitigation (overview).
6.9 Corrosion and protection: impacts on service life and maintenance.
6.10 Reading simple structural drawings: symbols, dimensions and detail.
Plan de estudio - Módulos
1.1 What is naval design: disciplines, phases (conceptual–basic–detailed) and deliverables.
1.2 Vessel typologies: merchant ships, passenger ships, yachts, fishing vessels, defense vessels, and offshore vessels.
1.3 Ship parts and essential naval terminology (hull, deck, frames, bulkheads).
1.4 Owner/operator requirements: mission, route, range, speed, payload and restrictions.
1.5 Main dimensions (L, B, T, D) and shape coefficients (Cb, Cp, Cm).
1.6 Principles of buoyancy and stability: thrust, center of buoyancy, center of gravity.
1.7 Resistance and propulsion: notions of power and efficiency.
1.8 Basic naval structure: stresses, types of joints and reading of simple plans.
1.9 Standards and classification: role of classification societies and general requirements.
1.10 Life cycle: design, construction, operation, maintenance and retrofit.
2.1 Project brief: objectives, constraints, and acceptance criteria.
2.2 Weight and distribution estimation (lightship, deadweight) in the conceptual phase.
2.3 Capacity estimation: volume, holds, tanks, passenger capacity, and habitability.
2.4 Selection of main dimensions and L/B and B/T ratios according to typology. 2.5 Hull Type Selection: Displacement, Semi-displacement, Planing.
2.6 Preliminary Speed and Power Profile: Relationship with Resistance and Consumption.
2.7 Operational Restrictions: Draft, Ports, Channels, Height/Bridge Limitations.
2.8 Requirements of Security: basic compartmentalization, evacuation, and redundancies.
2.9 Conceptual design deliverables: preliminary GA, baseline specification, and risks.
2.10 Change management: scope control and early decisions.
3.1 Archimedes’ Principle applied to ships: displacement and drafts.
3.2 Center of buoyancy (B) and center of gravity (G): interpretation and effects.
3.3 Metacenter (M) and GM: initial stability and practical reading.
3.4 Hydrostatic curves: how 3.5 Intact stability: GZ concepts, area under curve, and basic criteria.
3.6 Effect of free surfaces on tanks: impact and mitigation.
3.7 Loading and stowage: how it affects stability and safety.
3.8 Ballast: Objectives, operation, and design implications.
3.9 Introduction to fault stability: compartmentalization and buoyancy margin.
3.10 Basic stability report: structure, assumptions, and conclusions.
4.1 Line plans: sections, waterlines, buttocks; Reading and interpretation.
4.2 Shape coefficients: how they guide hull performance.
4.3 Bow, stern, and knee: influence on strength and behavior.
4.4 Volume distribution and buoyancy: longitudinal balance and trim.
4.5 Design of bilges, bulbs and keels: function and compromises.
4.6 Hull materials: steel, aluminum, composites; Impact on shape and weight.
4.7 Freeboard and load lines: concepts and design consequences.
4.8 Protection and finishes: paint, antifouling, and corrosion (overview).
4.9 Tolerances and manufacturing: how the shipyard influences shape design.
4.10 Geometric change control: consistency between lines, weights and stability.
5.1 Drag components: friction, shape, waves, and appendages.
5.2 Froude number and operating regime: displacement vs. semi-planing.
5.3 Preliminary power estimate: simplified methods and assumptions.
5.4 Propulsion systems: conventional propeller, waterjet, pod; Initial selection criteria.
5.5 Hull-propeller interaction: wake, thrust, and losses.
5.6 Propulsive efficiency: how to interpret it in the conceptual phase.
5.7 Rudder and maneuverability: notions of directional control.
5.8 Consumption and Autonomy: relationship with power, speed, and fuel capacity.
5.9 Cavitation and vibration: concepts and effects in design.
5.10 Preliminary deliverables: power sheet, operating profiles, and risks.
6.1 Global loads: hogging/sagging, longitudinal and shear stresses.
6.2 Structural elements: keel, frames, ribs, beams, reinforcements.
6.3 Panels and stiffening: buckling and scantling concepts (intro).
6.4 Structural materials: basic properties and selection by type. 6.5 Connections: welding, rivets, adhesives (composites), and quality criteria.
6.6 Compartmentalization: watertight bulkheads and safety functions.
6.7 Roofs and superstructure: structural and habitability role.
6.8 Structural vibrations: causes and mitigation (overview).
6.9 Corrosion and protection: impacts on service life and maintenance.
6.10 Reading simple structural drawings: symbols, dimensions and detail.
7.1 GA (General Arrangement): purpose, standards, and components.
7.2 Zoning: technical areas, cargo, passenger, crew, and security.
7.3 Ergonomics and accessibility: aisles, stairs, doors, and maintenance.
7.4 Watertightness and protection: watertight doors, closures, barriers, and access points. data-start=”5684″ data-end=”5687″ />7.5 Tank integration: fuel, ballast, water; Effects on stability and operation.
7.6 Technical compartments: engine room, generators, switchboards, and ventilation (introduction).
7.7 Habitability: noise, vibration, ventilation, and lighting (basic concepts).
7.8 Safety and evacuation: routes, safe zones, and general criteria.
7.9 Design rules for maintenance: access, dismantling, and service panels.
7.10 GA iteration–weights–stability: how the design is adjusted by cycles.
8.1 Propulsion and power generation: basic architecture and space requirements.
8.2 Piping systems: dewatering, ballast, fuel, water; Routing concepts.
8.3 HVAC and ventilation: impact on space design and electrical power.
8.4 Steering and control: rudder, actuators, navigation electronics (overview).
8.5 Fire safety: detection, suppression, and compartmentalization (intro).
8.6 Equipment deck equipment: windlasses, cranes, capstans; Loads and reinforcements.
8.7 Instrumentation and automation: signals, alarms, and documentation.
8.8 Cable integration: trays, penetrations, and multidisciplinary coordination.
8.9 Interfaces with regulations: how systems impact class/authority requirements.
8.10 Coordination Engineering: collisions, interferences, and change management.
9.1 Role of Classification Societies and Flag State Management (Overview).
9.2 Typical Documentation for Approval: Drawings, Calculations, and Specifications.
9.3 Basic Stability and Freeboard Requirements (Conceptual Approach).
9.4 Safety: Compartmentalization, Evacuation, and Integrity (Overview).<br data-start="7550" 9.5 Materials and welding: controls and traceability in construction.
9.6 Quality control in the shipyard: inspections, tests, and records.
9.7 Sea trials: objectives, plan, and acceptance criteria.
9.8 Configuration management: drawing versions and document control.
9.8 data-end=”7854″ />9.9 Costs and planning: how design impacts schedule and budget.
9.10 Typical project risks: early mitigation and lessons learned.
10.1 Case definition: mission, route, range, speed, and operating constraints.
10.2 Initial sizing: selection of L, B, T, D, and ratios; Justification by typology.
10.3 Preliminary estimate of weights and capacities: lightship, deadweight, tanks and margins.
10.4 GA sketch: zoning, technical spaces, tanks and access; Operational consistency.
10.5 Preliminary hull shapes: coefficients, volume distribution, and longitudinal balance.
10.6 Basic hydrostatics and stability: GM verification, trim, and free surface effects.
10.7 Preliminary power and propulsion: simplified estimation and propeller selection.
<strong data-start="8812" 10.8 Structure and security review: basic compartmentalization and integrity considerations.
10.9 Final documentation: technical report, assumptions, risks, and design iteration plan.
10.10 Presentation and defense: technical argument for the design, trade-offs, and recommendations for improvement.
Career opportunities
- Junior Naval Designer: Assisting in the creation of plans and 3D models of vessels.
- Naval Technical Drafter: Preparing detailed plans of naval structures and systems.
- Naval Engineer Assistant: Supporting calculations of ship stability, strength, and efficiency.
- Naval 3D Modeler: Creating visual representations of vessels for design and marketing.
- Shipyard Technician: Collaborating in the construction, repair, and maintenance of vessels.
- Technical Consultant: Advising on naval design and construction projects (experience required).
- Naval Inspector: Verifying compliance with regulations and safety standards for vessels.
- Project Offices Naval: Participation in the conceptual design and development of new vessels.
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Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
5. Induction
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ≥ 24” monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Fundamentals of Naval Design: Learn the basic principles of naval architecture, hydrostatics, and stability.
- Specialized Software: Master key tools for 3D modeling, performance analysis, and structural design.
- Standards and Regulations: Understand international standards and safety standards in shipbuilding.
- Case Studies: Apply your knowledge to real-world projects, from recreational craft to merchant ships.
- Professional Development: Boost your career in the shipbuilding industry with comprehensive and up-to-date training.
Testimonials
I mastered the fundamental principles of naval design, including hydrostatics, stability, resistance, and propulsion. I applied this knowledge to the preliminary design of a cargo ship, optimizing its hull shape for efficiency and stability while meeting the specified capacity and speed requirements. Positive feedback from the instructor on my final project confirmed my solid understanding of the concepts and my ability to apply them effectively.
During the Naval Architecture and Boat Design course, I applied the principles I had learned to optimize the design of a racing catamaran. My proposal reduced drag by 12% through the implementation of a new hull design, significantly improving its intended performance. This project was recognized by the faculty as one of the most innovative in the course, demonstrating my understanding of the key concepts and my ability to apply them creatively.
During the Introduction to Naval Design course, I exceeded my expectations by designing a small recreational boat that met all the stability and seaworthiness requirements. Applying the hydrostatic principles I had learned, I optimized the weight distribution and hull, resulting in an efficient and safe design that was successfully validated by simulation software. This project gave me the confidence and foundational skills to continue exploring the field of naval design.
Mastering hydrostatic and hydrodynamic principles in the Introduction to Naval Design course allowed me to optimize the hull design for a recreational boat, improving its efficiency by 15% in simulations. This achievement validated my understanding of the relationship between hull shape, resistance, and stability, preparing me to tackle more complex design projects.
Frequently asked questions
Create a ship or vessel that meets the requirements of performance, safety, cost and construction feasibility.
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.
To create a ship or vessel that meets the specific requirements of the owner or user in a safe, efficient, and economical manner.
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 University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
10.1 Case definition: mission, route, range, speed, and operating constraints.
10.2 Initial sizing: selection of L, B, T, D, and ratios; Justification by typology.
10.3 Preliminary estimate of weights and capacities: lightship, deadweight, tanks and margins.
10.4 GA sketch: zoning, technical spaces, tanks and access; Operational consistency.
10.5 Preliminary hull shapes: coefficients, volume distribution, and longitudinal balance.
10.6 Basic hydrostatics and stability: GM verification, trim, and free surface effects.
10.7 Preliminary power and propulsion: simplified estimation and propeller selection.
<strong data-start="8812" 10.8 Structure and security review: basic compartmentalization and integrity considerations.
10.9 Final documentation: technical report, assumptions, risks, and design iteration plan.
10.10 Presentation and defense: technical argument for the design, trade-offs, and recommendations for improvement.
Request information
- Complete the Application Form
- Attach your CV/Qualifications (if you have them to hand).
- Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you want the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
Teachers
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.